Development Of A Rating Scale Measuring Interpersonal Control As A Maintenance Factor Of Alcohol Dependency

ABSTRACT

Interpersonal control is a significant factor in the maintenance of alcohol dependency within the dyad relationship. In the treatment of a dysfunctional behaviour, like alcohol dependency, intuitive psychological interventions have been in use. This has generated much criticism. Therefore, research and measurement tools need to be used as a basis for more objective therapeutic interventions. This study was designed to develop a reliable and valid interpersonal control rating measure to address the lack of such an instrument for clinical practices for psychotherapeutic interventions in Namibia. Content analysis of literature was used in development of a preliminary Interpersonal Control Rating Scale. The constructed scale took the format of a global behavioural anchored rating scale. A sample of 21 participants was used for this study: those in intimate relationship and displayed alcohol dependency; those intimate partners who displayed alcohol dependency; and those intimate partners alcohol dependency were not prevalent. The participants were subjected to a non-directive interview. This interview technique elicits the interactional styles displayed by participants. Their interactional styles were evaluated using the Interpersonal Control Rating Scale by four Raters. The findings show that the Interpersonal Control Rating Scale was found reliable with reliability coefficients of .91 for average measures and .71 for single measures. The instrument's validity was also established. The study recommends that the Interpersonal Control Rating Scale can be used as a tool for assessment of dyad relationships in the plan treatment by Clinicians.