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As Valentine’s Day approaches, researchers at Stockholm University have introduced a new scientific tool designed to help individuals gauge the health of their romantic relationships. The Valentine’s Scale, a seven-question assessment, provides insight into relationship satisfaction and aims to promote open communication between partners. The study detailing this tool has been published in the journal Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
A Tool for Understanding Relationship Well-Being
Romantic relationships play a crucial role in psychological well-being, improving quality of life and potentially preventing mental health issues. However, reliable and accessible tools for evaluating relationship satisfaction have been scarce.
“This scale makes it possible to quickly and efficiently get an idea of how a relationship is doing, without having to go through long and complicated interviews or questionnaires,” said Per Carlbring, professor of psychology at Stockholm University and one of the lead researchers behind the study. “It can even be used during couples counseling to monitor progress over time.”
The Valentine’s Scale consists of seven questions focusing on key aspects of relationships, including emotional closeness, trust, and conflict resolution. Along with the results, the tool provides practical exercises that couples can use to strengthen their bond.
Scientific Validation and Accessibility
Two extensive studies involving over 1,300 participants confirmed the reliability of the Valentine’s Scale. Researchers found strong correlations between this tool and other established relationship satisfaction measures, such as the Dyadic Adjustment Scale and the Quality of Dyadic Relationships assessment. Compared to these traditional methods, the Valentine’s Scale is easier to use and freely available to the public.
“By providing a clear picture of relationship health, the scale can help predict improvements in quality of life and even contribute to reducing mental health problems such as anxiety and depression,” Carlbring explained.
Encouraging Reflection and Communication
Carlbring emphasizes that the Valentine’s Scale should be seen as a tool for reflection rather than a definitive judgment on the future of a relationship.
“The goal is to encourage open communication and understanding, not to create unnecessary stress,” he said. “If the test results raise concerns, couples should discuss underlying issues, as relationships are dynamic and influenced by many factors, including stress, communication challenges, and life circumstances.”
Carlbring encourages couples to take the test together as a meaningful activity this Valentine’s Day. “Use the Valentine’s Scale as an opportunity to reconnect and explore ways to strengthen your relationship,” he advised.
Reference:
Jón Ingi Hlynsson et al, To be or not to be satisfied in your romantic relationship: evaluating the reliability and validity of the Valentine Scale, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (2025). DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2024.2420655
Disclaimer: The Valentine’s Scale is intended as a general reflection tool and should not be considered a substitute for professional relationship counseling or mental health services.
