Family measurement techniques: The conflict tactics scales

Abstract

The Conflict Tactics Scales (CTS) are “the most widely used instrument for measuring the tactics used by members of a family in a conflict situation” (Straus, 1987, p. 3). Murray Straus, who developed the CTS, notes, in perhaps the best summary of research on the scales, that they have been used in nearly 120 papers, and at least five books (Straus, 1987). Unlike many other measures, the CTS have been used in national, random surveys. In other words, the CTS are probably the best known instruments for measuring verbal and physical family violence.