We present expressions for the matrix elements of the spin--spin operator $vec S_{rm n}cdotvec S_{rm p}$ in a variety of coupling schemes. These results are then applied to calculate the expectation value $langlevec S_{rm n}cdotvec S_{rm p}rangle$ in eigenstates of a schematic Hamiltonian describing neutrons and protons interacting in a single-$l$ shell through a Surface Delta Interaction. The model allows us to trace $langlevec S_{rm n}cdotvec S_{rm p}rangle$ as a function of the competition between the isovector and isoscalar interaction strengths and the spin--orbit splitting of the $j=lpm frac{1}{2}$ shells. We find negative $langlevec S_{rm n}cdotvec S_{rm p}rangle$ values in the ground state of all even--even $N=Z$ nuclei, contrary to what has been observed in hadronic inelastic scattering at medium energies. We discuss the possible origin of this discrepancy and indicate directions for future theoretical and experimental studies related to neutron--proton spin--spin correlations.
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