Adaptation and Psychometric Evidence of the Work Volition Scale - Student Version to Brazil

Abstract

Abstract The Psychology of Working Theory has achieved notable prominence in career studies for its focus on how various - both individual and contextual - influence careers and job outcomes. “Volition” stands out as one of the key elements of this theory, representing the individuals’ ability to make career choices despite obstacles. This study aimed to adapt and validate both internal and external structures of the Work Volition Scale - Student Version (WVS-SV) to Brazil. A total of 590 university students from public and private institutions of varied courses and semesters, mostly women (59%), took part in the study. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the scale effectively measured two dimensions: volition and constraints. External evidence, including satisfaction with life and career, supported the theoretical aspects of this construct. The results indicated good psychometric properties of the scale to the Brazilian setting, contributing to a better understanding of career choices among university students.