Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale – DSC
Measures how respondents perceive the communication process and discussion of sexual matters within their primary relationship.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale – DSC was developed by Joseph A. Catania (1986). It is designed to measure Dyadic Sexual Communication. The scale is intended for use with Adults and adolescents in sexual relationships.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 13 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Disagree Strongly, 2 = Disagree, 3 = Slightly Disagree, 4 = Slightly Agree, 5 = Agree, 6 = Agree Strongly.
The scale includes 7 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 13 to 78. Interpretation guidelines:
- Poorer Sexual Communication: 13 – 52
- Better Sexual Communication: 53 – 78
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Cronbach's alpha = .81 – .87.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 2 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.