Trait Responses to Interpersonal Offenses Scale (TRIOS): Measure development and validity evidence

In four studies, we developed the Trait Responses to Interpersonal Offenses Scale (TRIOS) and provided initial validity evidence for use of the measure. The TRIOS assesses three patterns of response tendencies after others are hurt or offended by one's actions: self-condemnation, self-exoneration, and self-forgiveness. In Study 1, we developed the scale with an online U.S. sample and evaluated initial reliability and validity data. In Study 2, we conducted a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with a U.S. college student sample and examined construct validity. In Study 3, we examined relationships between the TRIOS subscales and personal wellbeing and interpersonal responses following a specific transgression. Finally, in Study 4, we examined predictive validity in a prospective study with Australian college students who committed an interpersonal transgression after enrollment in the study. Results demonstrated a consistent three-factor structure with good subscale reliability. The four studies demonstrated initial validity evidence for use of the TRIOS. Self-condemnation was consistently associated with negative personal wellbeing indicators and had neutral to negative associations with interpersonal functioning. Self-exoneration had mixed associations with personal wellbeing and was consistently associated with negative interpersonal functioning indicators. Self-forgiveness was associated typically with positive personal wellbeing and consistently with positive interpersonal functioning indicators.