Partner Communication Scale – PCS
Measures the frequency of communication about sexual health and history with a sexual partner.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Partner Communication Scale – PCS was developed by Robin R. Milhausen, Jessica McDermott Sales, Ralph J. DiClemente (2007). It is designed to measure Sexual communication frequency. The scale is intended for use with Adolescents and adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 5 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 0 = Never, 1 = Sometimes (1–3 Times), 2 = Often (4–6 Times), 3 = A Lot (7 or More Times).
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 0 to 15. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Communication: 0 – 5
- Moderate Communication: 6 – 10
- High Communication: 11 – 15
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.80 – 0.90.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.