Gay and lesbian couples’ relationship quality: Italian validation of the Gay and Lesbian Relationship Satisfaction Scale (GLRSS)

Abstract

This study examines the psychometric properties of the Italian Gay and Lesbian Relationship Satisfaction Scale (GLRSS) in a sample of 305 Italian lesbians (48.2%) and gay men (51.8%), aged 19–72 yrs (M = 36.4, SD = 11.9). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed the expected bi-factorial structure and a close correlation between factors and scale. Internal consistency was satisfactory. Correlations with the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) and with the Measure for Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay men (MISS-LG) were consistent with theoretical relationships within construct and between constructs. Lesbians, younger people, and participants in civil unions showed higher levels of relationship satisfaction, while participants in long-term relationships, as well as in civil unions, showed higher levels of perceived social support.