Sapozhnikova M.A. Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the Russian Version of the Investment Model Scale of Caryl Rusbult

Russian psychology lacks validated instruments for the comprehensive assessment of commitment in romantic relationships. Existing measures primarily focus on relationship satisfaction while overlooking key determinants of relationship stability, such as accumulated investments and the perceived quality of alternatives, as conceptualized in Caryl Rusbult’s Investment Model.

The objective was to adapt and psychometrically validate the Russian-language version of the Investment Model Scale (IMS).

The study involved 421 participants aged 18–66 years and older who were in romantic relationships of various forms (marriage, cohabitation, etc.) and durations. The adaptation procedure included forward and backward translation followed by cognitive interviews. Psychometric analyses were conducted using Cronbach’s alpha, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and multiple linear regression.

CFA supported the theorized four-factor structure of the scale (satisfaction, investments, quality of alternatives, and commitment). The best model fit was demonstrated by the version using global items (CFI = 0.913; TLI = 0.901; SRMR = 0.068). The subscales showed high internal consistency (α = 0.885–0.969). Predictive validity was confirmed by the model’s ability to explain 55% of the variance in commitment (R² = 0.55). Cognitive interviews refined the interpretation of the “quality of alternatives” construct in the Russian sociocultural context.

The adapted Russian version of the Investment Model Scale is a reliable and valid instrument suitable for both academic research and family counselling practice. The findings provide a solid framework for studying relationship stability and predicting relationship outcomes in Russia.

Key words: investment model, commitment, relationship satisfaction, relationship investments, quality of alternatives, psychometric adaptation

For citation: Sapozhnikova, M.A. (2026). Adaptation and psychometric validation of the russian version of the investment model scale of caryl rusbult. New Psychological Research, No. 3, 115–134. DOI: 10.51217/npsyresearch_2026_06_03_06