A comparison of three indexes to assess the dimensions of structural analysis of social behavior

Structural Analysis of Social Behavior (SASB) is an increasingly popular model of interpersonal and intrapsychic interactions that provides a flexible assessment methodology ranging from an observer-based coding system to a modifiable objective self-report questionnaire: the Intrex. Published research using the Intrex has varied in the methods employed to assess the fundamental dimensions of affiliation and autonomy of SASB. In this article, we review the conceptual and computational differences among 3 indexes to assess the SASB dimensions. Empirical comparisons revealed good support for convergent validity but significant differences in distribution characteristics and orthogonality. These results have direct implications for assessment strategies, statistical analyses, and interpretation of both clinical assessments and clinical research. Results are discussed with reference to developing guidelines for assessment and research use of SASB via self-report.