The Validation of the Weiss Partner Betrayal Trauma Scale: The Data

This study was conducted to validate the Weiss Partner Betrayal Trauma Scale (WPBTS); a self-report measure of traumatic spousal betrayal in wives of sex addicts for counselors and researchers. After creating an initial pool of scale items and receiving feedback from a panel of experienced sexual addiction counselors, the WPBTS was edited and pilot tested. Principle component analysis with varimax rotation revealed a simple four-factor structure which accounted for 60.8% of the total variance. Reliability analysis showed sufficient internal consistency (α = .840). Discriminant validity was established using three comparative measures: the number of betrayals, the Couples Satisfaction Index, and a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder assessment. The WPBTS is established as a measure with strong expert, construct, and discriminant validity. Implications for the use of the WPBTS are discussed.