The relational-interdependent self-construal and relationships

Three studies describe the development and validation of a measure of the r elational-interdependent self-construal, which is defined as the tendency t o think of oneself in terms of relationships with close others. Study 1 rep orts the development, psychometric properties, and tests of validity of thi s new measure. Individuals who scored high on the Relational-Interdependent Self-Construal (RISC) Scale characterized their important relationships as closer and more committed than did individuals who scored low on this meas ure (Study 1) and were more likely to take into account the needs and wishe s of others when making decisions (Study 2). In Study 3, using a dyadic int eraction paradigm with previously unacquainted participants, the partners o f persons who scored high on the RISC scale viewed them as open and respons ive to their needs and concerns; these perceptions were related to positive evaluations of the relationship.