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Optimism Scale
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About Optimism Scale
Scale Name
Optimism Scale
Author Details
Part of the Mental Health Measure in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (1997) conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Translation Availability
English
Background/Description
The Optimism Scale assesses the general expectation that positive events will occur in an individual’s life. Optimism is a key psychological factor linked to well-being, resilience, and better coping strategies in the face of challenges. This specific scale is part of the Mental Health Measure developed for the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (1997) and evaluates how optimistic youth are about themselves and their futures.
Targeting adolescents aged 12–18 years (Grades 6–12), the scale comprises four concise items, making it ideal for inclusion in broader assessments of mental health and well-being. Its simplicity and reliability make it widely applicable in both research and practical settings.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Target Population: Adolescents aged 12–18 years.
- Format: Self-report questionnaire.
- Instructions: Participants rate their level of agreement with four statements on a 4-point Likert scale.
- 1 = Strongly Disagree
- 2 = Disagree
- 3 = Agree
- 4 = Strongly Agree
- Duration: Approximately 5 minutes to complete.
- Environment: Conducted in a quiet and private setting to ensure accurate responses.
- Scoring:
- Reverse-code Items 2 and 4.
- Total the responses to calculate the overall optimism score.
- Higher scores indicate greater levels of optimism.
Reliability and Validity
- Reliability: Evidence of reliability comes from its consistent use in national samples of youth since 1986.
- Validity: The scale demonstrates strong content and predictive validity, showing its effectiveness in measuring optimism across diverse youth populations.
Available Versions
04-Items
Reference
U.S. Department of Labor. (1997). Mental Health Measure: Optimism Scale. National Longitudinal Survey of Youth.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does the Optimism Scale measure?
It measures the level of optimism adolescents feel about themselves and their futures.
Q2: Who can use the Optimism Scale?
Researchers, educators, and mental health professionals working with adolescents aged 12–18 years.
Q3: How are the scores interpreted?
Higher scores reflect greater levels of optimism.
Q4: Can this scale be used without permission?
Yes, permission is not required to use this scale.
Q5: In what settings is the scale most applicable?
It can be used in research studies, school-based interventions, and psychological assessments focusing on youth mental health.
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