Development and Validation of the Short Grit Scale (Grit–S)

Abstract

In this article, we introduce brief self-report and informant-report versions of the Grit Scale, which measures trait-level perseverance and passion for long-term goals. The Short Grit Scale (Grit–S) retains the 2-factor structure of the original Grit Scale (Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews, & Kelly, 2007) with 4 fewer items and improved psychometric properties. We present evidence for the Grit–S's internal consistency, test–retest stability, consensual validity with informant-report versions, and predictive validity. Among adults, the Grit–S was associated with educational attainment and fewer career changes. Among adolescents, the Grit–S longitudinally predicted GPA and, inversely, hours watching television. Among cadets at the United States Military Academy, West Point, the Grit–S predicted retention. Among Scripps National Spelling Bee competitors, the Grit–S predicted final round attained, a relationship mediated by lifetime spelling practice.