Reliability and validity of a Japanese translation of the Stress Mindset Measure (SMM-J)

Abstract

This study developed a Japanese version of the Stress Mindset Measure (SMM-J), which captures individual differences in beliefs on the nature of stress, and investigated its reliability and validity. Study 1 examined the reliability and factor structure of the SMM-J by analyzing survey data of 449 employed adults. The results revealed that the SMM-J was composed of two negatively and strongly correlated factors: harmfulness of stress and usefulness of stress. Study 2 (92 parents), Study 3 (349 undergraduates), and Study 4 (800 employed adults) examined the predictive validity of the SMM-J. The results showed that the SMM-J predicted subjective health and life satisfaction after controlling for the effects of traditional stress factors such as the amount of stress and the coping style. This result is consistent with previous studies. The importance of an appropriate stress mindset is discussed.