Just in time for Valentine’s Day, researchers at Stockholm University have developed a new way to measure relationship satisfaction. Their study, published in the journal Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, introduces the Valentine’s Scale, a scientifically validated tool that helps people assess their romantic relationships in just seven questions.
Romantic relationships play a key role in mental and emotional well-being. A healthy relationship can improve quality of life and help prevent issues like anxiety and depression. However, many existing tools for measuring relationship satisfaction are complex and time-consuming. The Valentine’s Scale was designed to be quick, simple, and accessible.
How the Valentine’s Scale Works
The scale consists of seven questions that focus on important aspects of a relationship, including:
- Emotional closeness
- Trust
- Conflict resolution
After answering the questions, individuals receive feedback and practical tips on how to strengthen their relationship. The researchers suggest that the scale can be useful not only for individuals and couples but also in couples counseling, where it can track progress over time.
Scientifically Backed and Reliable
To test its accuracy, the researchers conducted two large studies involving more than 1,300 participants.
The results showed that the Valentine’s Scale is highly reliable and closely matches other established relationship assessment tools, such as the Dyadic Adjustment Scale and the Quality of Dyadic Relationships scale. However, unlike these longer tools, the Valentine’s Scale is simpler and freely available.
According to Professor Per Carlbring, one of the researchers behind the study, this tool can even help predict improvements in well-being. If problems in a relationship are identified early, couples may have a better chance of addressing them before they lead to mental health issues.
A Tool for Reflection, Not Judgment
The Valentine’s Scale is not meant to be a final judgment on a relationship’s future. Instead, it is a tool for self-reflection and open communication.
“If the test result raises concerns, it may be a good idea to talk about what lies behind the answers,” says Carlbring. “Relationships are dynamic and affected by many factors, such as stress, communication difficulties, or other life circumstances.
By reflecting together, couples can find ways forward—whether that means strengthening their bond or making other decisions.”
He encourages people to use the scale as a starting point for conversation, especially around Valentine’s Day. The goal is not to achieve a perfect score but to gain insight into the relationship and explore ways to improve it.
The Valentine’s Scale offers a simple yet effective way to check in on your relationship. Whether used individually or as a couple, it provides an opportunity for reflection, growth, and deeper emotional connection.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about the harm of vitamin D deficiency, and Mediterranean diet may preserve brain volume in older adults.
For more health information, please see recent studies about foods to naturally lower high blood pressure, and a simple breakfast switch can help control type 2 diabetes.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
