Validation Evidence for the Work Domain Satisfaction Scale in Two Languages

Abstract

<p>We used the samples of six studies to validate the Work Domain Satisfaction Scale (WDSS), a global, five-item and mid-level measure of work domain well-being. English and French versions of the scale were included in the studies to assess the stability of the instrument across these languages. Confirmatory factor analysis yielded a one-factor structure, which was shown invariant across languages and samples. Test-retest reliability of the scale was high, indicating that it measures a stable construct over time. Confirmatory factor analysis also provided evidence that satisfaction with work, measured with the WDSS, is related, but conceptually and empirically distinct from both life satisfaction and job satisfaction. The WDSS was also correlated in predictable ways with affective organizational commitment, a measure of how attached people are to their organizations. Work domain satisfaction also explained a significant amount of variance in affective organizational commitment, beyond job satisfaction. Moreover, the WDSS was positively related to inclusion of work into the self, a psychological variable that reflects the importance of work in the lives of individuals. The results indicate that the WDSS is a reliable, stable, and valid mid-level measure of satisfaction with work as a domain within people’s lives.</p>