Measuring Romantic Relational Aggression in Emerging Adulthood: A Systematic Review of Measurement Practices and Reported Psychometric Evidence

This project is a systematic review of measurement and psychometric evidence. The goal is to identify, summarize, and critically appraise how Romantic Relational Aggression (RRA) is measured in emerging adults (ages 18–29). RRA refers to relational aggression occurring within romantic relationships, namely, behaviors intended to harm a romantic partner through non-physical, relationship-based tactics such as social exclusion, threats to withdraw affection, reputation damage, or jealousy induction. In contrast to physical aggression, RRA operates by manipulating the romantic bond and the partner’s relational and social standing, rather than through direct bodily harm. RRA has been studied across developmental periods. Yet, emerging adulthood presents unique relationship dynamics and developmental challenges. These factors may influence both the expression of RRA and the effectiveness of measurement tools. A focused review is needed to ensure valid inference and comparability across studies in this population. The review has two main aims. First, it will map the measurement landscape by identifying the instruments, subscales, and item sets used to assess RRA perpetration and victimization in emerging adult romantic relationships. It will also document key characteristics that affect interpretation and comparability. These include informant type, recall period, response format, scoring procedures, and operational definitions of RRA. Second, it will synthesize available psychometric evidence using a COSMIN-informed and efficient approach. The focus will be on the most commonly reported and impactful properties for score interpretation: structural validity, internal consistency (considering dimensionality), test–retest reliability (when available), and construct validity (hypothesis testing). Evidence on content validity will be included when directly reported. Additional properties, such as measurement error, cross-cultural validity, or measurement invariance, criterion validity, and responsiveness, will be summarized when available. Methods overview Searches will be conducted in major databases: PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. Regional sources, such as SciELO and Redalyc, and relevant grey literature will supplement the search. Two independent reviewers will screen records and extract data using standardized forms. A two-tiered extraction strategy will improve feasibility. All included studies will inform the instrument and practice mapping. COSMIN-informed appraisal will focus on studies that report psychometric analyses or provide interpretable evidence on measurement properties. Expected outcomes The review will provide a structured inventory of RRA measures used with emerging adults. It will clarify differences in operational definitions, item content, informants, recall periods, response formats, scoring procedures, and administration practices. The review will generate an evidence map showing which measurement properties are currently supported for each measure or version. It will also show which areas remain under-evaluated. The review will offer evidence-based recommendations for instrument selection in emerging adult research. It will also outline priorities for future validation, especially in areas that often limit inference in applied measurement, such as content validity, test–retest reliability, and measurement invariance.