ABSTRACT
The Structural Analysis of Social Behavior (or SASB) Observational Coding Scheme (Benjamin, 1974; Benjamin, Giat, & Estroff, 1981; Humphrey & Benjamin, 1989) is a circumplex-based model for describing observed interpersonal behaviors. As we explain in this chapter, the SASB is well suited for family process coding for four specific reasons. First, because the SASB model is based on a well-validated theory of personality, interpersonal diagnosis, and clinical intervention, clearly delineated clinical implications can be derived from most SASB-based research findings, helping to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice (Benjamin, 1994, 1996a; Henry, 1996; Leary, 1957; Sullivan, 1953). Second, the SASB model is designed to be sensitive to variations in the nuance and meaning of behavior across different contexts. As such, SASB is particularly apt for studies designed to assess and compare family processes across groups thought to engage in interpersonally distinct mode of communication (Florsheim, Tolan, & Gorman-Smith, 1996). Third, the flexibility of the SASB model enhances its utility for developmental research. That is, because the underlying dimensions are related to interpersonal processes occurring across the life span, the SASB model can be used to assess stability and change in interpersonal behaviors at various stages of family development. Fourth, the SASB model provides a conceptually coherent, detailed, and comprehensive assessment of observed family behavior. Rather than focus on a select set of specified behaviors, or describe family interaction in molar, global terms, SASB is designed to produce a highly descriptive and thorough account of family interaction. The comprehensiveness and specificity of the SASB approach helps researchers to address sharply defined research questions and examine post hoc hypotheses more efficiently.
