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Optimism Scale (PsyCap Questionnaire)
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About Optimism Scale (PsyCap Questionnaire)
Scale Name
Optimism Scale (Part of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire – PCQ)
Author Details
Fred Luthans, Bruce J. Avolio, James B. Avey, & Steven M. Norman
Translation Availability
Not Sure
Background/Description
The Optimism Subscale of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ) is a widely recognized measure of one’s tendency to maintain a positive outlook on future outcomes. Optimism is a key component of Psychological Capital (PsyCap), which also includes Hope, Resilience, and Efficacy. Together, these dimensions reflect an individual’s positive psychological resources that contribute to personal and professional success.
The Optimism Subscale assesses a person’s general expectancy that good things will happen in their life and workplace. Rooted in positive psychology, this subscale evaluates dispositional optimism (general outlook) and learned optimism (adaptive behaviors). This construct is particularly relevant in organizational settings, where optimism correlates with increased productivity, better problem-solving, and improved mental well-being.
The Optimism Subscale consists of 6 items measured on a 6-point Likert scale (1 = Strongly Disagree to 6 = Strongly Agree). It is commonly used in organizational behavior research and practical interventions to enhance employee performance and well-being.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the Scale: Access the full PCQ, which includes the Optimism Subscale, through Mind Garden Inc.
- Purpose: Measure optimism within broader assessments of Psychological Capital.
- Provide Instructions: Explain the purpose of the assessment. Ensure anonymity to encourage honesty.
- Administer the Subscale: Use paper-based or digital formats. Participants rate their agreement with 6 statements related to optimism. Responses are scored on a 6-point Likert scale.
Reliability and Validity
The Optimism Subscale of the PCQ demonstrates strong psychometric properties:
- Reliability: Internal consistency is high, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients typically above 0.70.
- Validity: Construct validity is supported through correlations with related measures, such as the Life Orientation Test (LOT). The scale has been shown to predict positive organizational outcomes, such as job satisfaction, performance, and resilience.
Available Versions
06-Items
Reference
Luthans, F., Avolio, B. J., Avey, J. B., & Norman, S. M. (2007). Positive psychological capital: Measurement and relationship with performance and satisfaction. Personnel psychology, 60(3), 541-572.
Avey, J. B., Reichard, R. J., Luthans, F., & Mhatre, K. H. (2011). Meta‐analysis of the impact of positive psychological capital on employee attitudes, behaviors, and performance. Human resource development quarterly, 22(2), 127-152.
Mind Garden Inc. (2024). Psychological Capital Questionnaire Manual. Retrieved from www.mindgarden.com
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Optimism Subscale?
It is a part of the PCQ that assesses an individual’s positive expectations for future outcomes.
How many items are in the Optimism Subscale?
It consists of 6 items rated on a 6-point Likert scale.
Where is the Optimism Subscale used?
It is commonly applied in workplace studies, organizational behavior research, and interventions promoting employee well-being.
What is Psychological Capital (PsyCap)?
PsyCap comprises four dimensions: Hope, Efficacy, Resilience, and Optimism, which collectively measure an individual’s psychological resources.
How reliable is the Optimism Subscale?
The subscale has shown high reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients exceeding 0.70 in most studies.
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