Abstract

*Andrew P. Smith and Arwel James

ABSTRACT

Background: Psychological capital is a key component of well-being. Many questionnaires measure the components of psychological capital (e.g. optimism, self-esteem and self-efficacy). The present study examined a single question in a sample of secondary school students and compared effects with those seen using the Student Well-being Process Questionnaire (SWPQ) psychological capital scale. Methods: Eighty-two secondary school students completed the study, which involved an online survey measuring psychological capital, well-being predictors and outcomes. Results: The three psychological capital questions from the SWPQ loaded on a single factor, and a total psychological capital score was used in the analyses. The single item and total psychological capital scores were significantly correlated and showed similar associations with well-being outcomes (positive correlations with positive outcomes and negative associations with negative outcomes). When other established predictors of well-being were included in the analyses, the single-item psychological measure remained significantly associated with flourishing, life satisfaction and perceived stress. Conclusions: A single-item psychological capital question was associated with the three-item psychological capital scale from the SWPQ and showed the expected associations with well-being outcomes. This question can now be used in a shorter version of the SWPQ.