Assessing Factor Structure and Convergent Validity of the Work Regulatory Focus Scale

Abstract

This study assessed the factor structure of the Work Regulatory Focus Scale, which includes work-related prevention and promotion as dimensions of regulatory focus. To examine the concurrent validity, these dimensions were correlated with the prevention and promotion subscales of the Chronic Regulatory Focus Questionnaire. Using computer-assisted telephone interviews, data were collected from 237 full-time working people in Hong Kong, with a response rate of 72.9%. A confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the two-factor model of the Work Regulatory Focus Scale fit the data adequately. Fit indices improved after two of the items with low factor loadings on the promotion focus dimension were excluded from the analysis, which left 10 items in the scale. Pearson correlations between work-related regulatory focus subscales and chronic regulatory focus subscales were low but significant (range, .19-.39). The mean score differences between regulatory focus subscales were mostly in the expected direction, providing convergent validity evidence. The implications of these findings and suggestions for future research on the validity of the scale were discussed.