Test-retest reliability of the revised conflict tactics scales (CTS2)

The Revised Conflict Tactics Scales (CTS2) are widely used to measure intimate partner aggression. Various aspects of the CTS2 and its subscales have been examined, e.g. factor structure, internal consistency, and validity, but little or no evidence exists regarding the stability of the self-report of aggression on the CTS2 This study examines the stability of reports of aggression against a partner on the CTS2 among 82 men court-mandated to a batterer intervention program. At both testing times men reported on aggression occurring in the year prior to beginning treatment. Using variety scores, stability of report was strong for psychological aggression (r=0.69), physical assault (r=0.76), injury (r=0.70), and negotiation (r=0.60), but weaker for sexual coercion (r=0.30). Implications for the use of the CTS2 in court-mandated populations are discussed.