Measuring couple intersubjectivity: an exploratory analysis for the validation of a new scale

Intersubjectivity is intended as the mental space that occurs between two minds, both characterized by positive and negative correspondence (Benjamin, 2004). Couple Intersubjectivity can be defined as a mutual adjustment process between two individuals who share a relationship; it can be considered in a positive dimension as the relational competence to share positive mental and emotional states inside the couple (Chiarolanza, 2015). We aim to create a new measure for couple intersubjectivity asking about partners’ relational competencies. We try to examine through an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) which factors might better define this construct. A 24-item questionnaire was administered to 424 partners of 212 Italian couples. The three factor solution resembled a triadic structure of couple intersubjectivity: self intersubjectivity that includes questions about each partner’s relational feelings and skills (item sample: "I am able to show affection to my partner"); partner intersubjectivity that includes partner perceived relational competencies and feelings (item sample: "My partner can confide in me"); weness referred to the relational skills as a dyad (item sample: "My partner and me share our experiences"). We aim to confirm these three dimensions in order to validate a Couple Intersubjectivity Scale as a way to assess how much the dyad members are able to mentally and emotionally tune about their intersubjective experiences inside the couple relationship. This could provide a deeper comprehension to romantic relationship’s aspects than the one provided, for example, by the empathic processes.