Psychometric Properties and Validation of the Korean Version of Stress Mindset Measure

Abstract

The factor structure of the Stress Mindset Measure (SMM), an 8-item questionnaire, has been explored in several countries, showing inconsistent results. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the SMM with a Korean sample. A total of 912 participants completed the online survey (women = 59.3%) at T1, and a random subsample selected from T1 sample ( n = 259, women = 62.9%) participated in the survey again at T2. At both time points, the results of confirmatory factor analyses supported a three-factor hierarchical model with three lower-order factors (i.e., learning and growth, performance and productivity, and health and vitality) and one higher-order general factor with correlated errors among three negatively worded items. In the model, 2 items measuring the “general” domain were deleted based on high correlations with the higher-order factor. Longitudinal factor analysis revealed that the revised factor structure and loadings were invariant over 6-month period. Theoretical validity was supported through significant correlations between the total score of the 6-item SMM and other stress-related measures. Overall, our results indicate that the Korean version of the SMM is a valid instrument and suggest using a total score of 6 items.