Psychometric Evaluation of the Slovak Version of the 9-Item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9)

Abstract

The objective was to evaluate the factorial and convergent validity, as well as the reliability of the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9) in the Slovak language. As a secondary objective, the psychometric properties of the ultra-short UWES-3 were examined. Study 1 included 532 employees (M_age=46.2; 63.7% women) and Study 2 included 985 employees (M_age=42.0; 48.5% women). Measures included the UWES-9, the BAT-12 (Burnout Assessment Tool), self-rated work performance, and the ISA-9 (Social, Intellectual, Affective Engagement Scale). Confirmatory factor analyses compared unidimensional and three-factor models. Global and local fit indices supported the three-factor structure in both studies. After incorporating two residual correlations identified in prior research, model fit further improved in Study 2. Internal consistency was high across studies and supported by average variance extracted, construct replicability, mean inter-item correlation, and item–total correlations. Test–retest (N=353) analyses in Study 1 indicated good temporal stability. Measurement invariance across gender was supported in both studies, and across occupational groups (manual, non-manual, management) in Study 2. Convergent validity was demonstrated through negative associations with burnout and positive associations with work performance and ISA-9. Overall, the Slovak UWES-9 shows sound psychometric properties, with UWES-3 serving as a viable alternative when brevity is required.