The Couples' Closeness–Distance Scale– Observation through joint-drawing: A pilot dyadic validation study

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the Couples' Closeness–Distance Scale (CCDS), an observational assessment reflecting couples' relational dynamics; based on joint-drawing, it offers measurable dimensions. Forty cohabiting Israeli couples participated in the joint-drawing task and answered self-report questionnaires for attachment, differentiation of self, and relationship satisfaction. The paintings were assessed by trained observers on the CCDS scales (too distant, too close, autonomy, engagement) for both the women's and men's experiences. A two-level-dyadic model showed that differentiation and relationship satisfaction predicted the CCDS and revealed a “pursue–withdraw cycle”: Women sensed the men as too distant, while men sensed the women as too close. Participants' sense of discomfort from their partners' distance related to less autonomy and engagement during the painting, with a greater effect on the women. The pilot implies that the CCDS enables observing dyadic-systemic aspects of couple dynamics and may enrich clinical evaluation.