Trait Boredom as a Lack of Agency: A Theoretical Model and a New Assessment Tool

Abstract

Trait boredom plays a significant role in well-being. However, this construct suffers from conceptual ambiguity and measurement problems. The aim of this study was to propose a comprehensive theory and a strong assessment tool to address these limitations. We defined trait boredom as the frequent experience of state boredom resulting from a chronic lack of agency. We developed a six-item self-report scale of the tendency to often experience boredom. Results confirmed a uni-dimensional scale with strong psychometric properties, including adequate internal consistency (ω = .84–.93), interindividual stability (69.04% of variance accounted by a trait factor), and acceptable model fit (CFI = .977–.998, TLI = .962–.997, RMSEA = .025–.090, SRMR = .014–.029). Results confirmed the validity of the scale by showing its associations with related measures. Our findings provide clarity on trait boredom and a strong, new measure to be used in future work.