Compared self-reported characteristics of 22 families who completed the Family Environment Scale with direct behavioral observations of interactions on a problem-solving task. Results showed the expressiveness and conflict subscales correlated significantly with behavioral variables, while the cohesion and control subscales did not. (JAC)

Although both theoretical and empirical literature suggests that individuals' family-of-origin experiences affect subsequent relationship functioning as adults, few studies have examined the appropriateness of family assessment techniques when applied retrospectively for use in either theory development or clinical applications. This study…