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Relational Communication Scale
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About Relational Communication Scale
Scale Name
Relational Communication Scale
Author Details
Judee K. Burgoon and Joseph L. Hale
Translation Availability
English
Background/Description
The Relational Communication Scale (RCS), developed by Judee K. Burgoon and Joseph L. Hale in 1987, is a 32–64-item Likert-type questionnaire designed to measure relational communication themes in interpersonal interactions. Published in Communication Monographs (1987), it operationalizes 12 dimensions from Burgoon and Hale’s (1984) synthesis: Dominance-Submission, Intimacy, Affection-Hostility, Involvement, Inclusion-Exclusion, Trust, Depth-Superficiality, Emotional Arousal, Composure, Similarity, Formality, and Task-Social Orientation. An 8-factor solution is recommended (Immediacy/Affection, Similarity/Depth, Receptivity/Trust, Composure, Formality, Dominance, Equality, Task Orientation), with items rated 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree).
The RCS can be self-report, other-report, or observer-report, adaptable to dyadic, family, health care, and mediated contexts. It takes ~10 minutes to complete. Validated with ~100–300 participants (mean age ≈ 18–40 years, mixed gender, U.S.-based), it discriminates immediacy, gender, credibility, and personality. Used in communication studies, psychology, and health communication to assess relational messages.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the RCS from Burgoon & Hale (1987) or Communication Monographs, ensuring ethical permissions.
- Explain to participants (adults 18+ in interpersonal contexts) that the questionnaire assesses relational communication, emphasizing confidentiality and voluntary participation.
- Administer the 32–64-item scale via self/other/observer report in research or clinical settings, rating agreement with statements about an interaction.
- Estimated completion time is ~10 minutes.
- Ensure a supportive environment; provide communication resources and adapt for accessibility (e.g., large print) if needed.
Reliability and Validity
The RCS demonstrates acceptable psychometric properties (Burgoon & Hale, 1987). Internal consistency varies (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.42–0.88 across dimensions, improving in later studies). Test-retest reliability is not extensively reported but inferred as moderate. Convergent validity is supported by discrimination of immediacy behaviors, voice tone, reward, gender, credibility, and personality. Discriminant validity is evidenced by factor differentiation. Construct validity is reinforced by the 8-factor solution capturing relational themes. The RCS reliably assesses relational communication. Pairing with the Relational Communication Measure enhances comprehensive assessment.
Available Versions
Multiple-Items
Reference
Burgoon, J. K., & Hale, J. L. (1987). Validation and measurement of the fundamental themes of relational communication. Communications Monographs, 54(1), 19-41.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the RCS measure?
It measures relational communication themes like immediacy, trust, dominance, and formality.
Who is the target population?
Adults (18+) in interpersonal, dyadic, or mediated communication contexts.
How long does it take to administer?
Approximately 10 minutes.
Can it inform interventions?
Yes, it assesses relational patterns to guide communication training.
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