The SCIS also comprises a positive dyadic dimension
assessing the couple as an interactive unit: interactional synchrony.
As for the IDCS, trained raters used behavioral cues to
assess each partner on each individual dimension and to assess the
dyad on the dyadic dimension. The raters also used a 9-point scale
ranging from 1 (very low) to 5 (moderate) to 9 (very high). Ratings
were made on the basis of the entire interaction. Earlier studies
involving the SCIS with heterosexual couples (Cormier & Julien,
1996) have demonstrated good reliability and good concurrent
validity with marital adjustment measures. For the support task
(SCIS), the ratings for each partner were averaged across the two
support interactions (helper and helpee roles).