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Published in: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine 3/2012

Open Access 01-09-2012

Measuring Engagement at Work: Validation of the Chinese Version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale

Authors: Ted Chun-tat Fong, Siu-man Ng

Published in: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine | Issue 3/2012

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Abstract

Background

Work engagement is a positive work-related state of fulfillment characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption. Previous studies have operationalized the construct through development of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. Apart from the original three-factor 17-item version of the instrument (UWES-17), there exists a nine-item shortened revised version (UWES-9).

Purpose

The current study explored the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale in terms of factorial validity, scale reliability, descriptive statistics, and construct validity.

Method

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted in 2009 among 992 workers from over 30 elderly service units in Hong Kong.

Results

Confirmatory factor analyses revealed a better fit for the three-factor model of the UWES-9 than the UWES-17 and the one-factor model of the UWES-9. The three factors showed acceptable internal consistency and strong correlations with factors in the original versions. Engagement was negatively associated with perceived stress and burnout while positively with age and holistic care climate.

Conclusion

The UWES-9 demonstrates adequate psychometric properties, supporting its use in future research in the Chinese context.
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Metadata
Title
Measuring Engagement at Work: Validation of the Chinese Version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale
Authors
Ted Chun-tat Fong
Siu-man Ng
Publication date
01-09-2012
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
International Journal of Behavioral Medicine / Issue 3/2012
Print ISSN: 1070-5503
Electronic ISSN: 1532-7558
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12529-011-9173-6

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