A first examination of the structure of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale in an italian sample

Abstract

Work Engagement is defined by Schaufeli and colleagues as a positive, fulfilling work-related state of mind that is characterized by Vigor, Dedication and Absorption. A questionnaire (UWES) was developed in different versions and languages, to be used in organizational contexts. We tried to confirm the factorial structure of the scale (either about the 9 and 17 items’ versions) using responses from an overall sample of 1080 Italian workers. Results confirmed the good structure of the UWES, consistent to Schaufeli’s findings. Concluding, the UWES can be used as a good measure of work engagement in Italian organizational contexts as well.