Validation of the Mental Toughness Scale: An Exploratory Factor Analytic Approach

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the mental toughness scale's structure while also investigating the relationship between mental toughness and academic fit among students, as well as academic burnout. Method: The study used a convenience sample of 470 adolescents from Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The researchers administered the Mental Toughness Scale, which was developed by Clough et al. (2002), the Academic Fit Scale developed by Schmitt et al. (2008), and the Burnout Assessment Tool created by Schaufeli, Witte, & Desart (2020). Results: The study revealed that mental toughness is actually made up of two dimensions. The first is mental toughness, while the second is mental fragility. The study also revealed a positive relationship between academic fit and mental toughness. Additionally, a negative relationship was observed between mental toughness and academic burnout among adolescents. Conclusion: The study is beneficial to both educators and mental health practitioners. The study can inform interventions to enhance academic engagement among students. The study can also inform interventions to enhance mental toughness among adolescents to manage academic burnout.