Using Cognitive Interviews to Evaluate the Four-Item Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale in Couples Who Might Benefit From a Palliative Approach

Sexuality research with people with progressive chronic illnesses tends to focus on functional sexuality, neglecting other issues and aspects of the couple experience. This qualitative study used cognitive interviews to evaluate the appropriateness and acceptability of the four-item Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale (DSCS), and to understand perspectives on sexuality and dyadic sexual communication in couples who might benefit from a palliative approach. Four couples aged 30-90 participated in face-to-face interviews using think-aloud and probing techniques. Cognitive Aspects of Survey Methodology and grounded theory techniques were used for data analysis. Although most DSCS items were comprehensible, the semantics of two items caused confusion. Encouragingly, DSCS scores may identify couples struggling with dyadic sexual communication. In the context of progressive chronic illness couples were fixating on function, exploring alternatives, and communicating (non)mutuality. More sexuality research is needed with the DSCS and with this population.