RELATE: A Relational & Attachment Six-Dimensional Framework

Authors: Adam Hafez, Zat+ Research Team Version: 1.0.0 — DRAFT

Abstract

RELATE covers attachment, couples, and family-system instruments (ECR-RS, DAS-7, CSI-16, FACES-IV, UCLA-3 loneliness, ProQOL caregiver). Models relational style across six dimensions including the often- missed cultural-relational axis (collectivist vs individualist attachment patterns).

1. Specification

1.1 Dimensions

Code	Name	Direction	Operationalization
R	Reach (relational availability)	strength	Reachable supportive ties
E	Embrace (intimacy capacity)	strength	Comfort with closeness
L	Latitude (autonomy in relations)	strength	Healthy independence
A	Anchoring (attachment security)	strength	Felt safety in close ties
T	Tone (relational style continuum)	(neutral)	Secure ↔ anxious ↔ avoidant ↔ disorganized
E	Empathy	strength	Perspective-taking + concern

6 letters R-E-L-A-T-E.

1.2 Composite Index

Pure strength (with Tone normalized so secure tendencies score higher).

RELATE_Index = round(
  R × 0.18 + E_embrace × 0.18 + L × 0.14 +
  A × 0.20 + T × 0.14 + E_empathy × 0.16
)

1.3 Norms

ECR-RS norms by relationship target (Fraley et al. 2011). DAS-7 cutoff ≤ 21 for relationship distress (Hunsley et al. 2001). UCLA-3 cutoff ≥ 6 for problematic loneliness (Russell 1996).

2. Comparison

Property	ECR-RS	DAS-7	UCLA-3	RELATE
Style classification	✓	✗	✗	✓
Couples-specific	✗	✓	✗	✓
Loneliness	✗	✗	✓	✓
Cultural-collectivist axis	✗	✗	✗	✓
Family system	✗	partial	✗	partial v1.1

References

Fraley, R. C., et al. (2011). The Experiences in Close Relationships—Relationship Structures (ECR-RS). Psychol Assess, 23(3), 615-625.
Hunsley, J., et al. (2001). The seven-item short form of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS-7). Assessment, 8(3), 325-335.
Russell, D. W. (1996). UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). J Pers Assess, 66(1), 20-40.
Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2007). Attachment in Adulthood: Structure, Dynamics, and Change. Guilford.