Cross-Validation of a Short Stress Measure: ASSET Pulse

There is a need for a short measure of workplace stress that organizations can use to take a quick look at workplace conditions and related health outcomes. The aim of this article is to construct and investigate the validity of a short stress measure (ASSET [A Shortened Stress Evaluation Tool] Pulse) derived from the original validated ASSET stress tool, using data collected from 39,342 employees who completed ASSET anonymously in 48 different organizations. A cross-validation approach randomly splitting the sample into two subsamples was used. We conclude good fit for (a) ASSET Pulse indicators and (b) ASSET Pulse total stressor scale. ASSET Pulse has the potential to reliably inform on stressor indicators using 10 items instead of the 37 used in the longer form of ASSET. Using ASSET Pulse should allow the identification of negative health impacts to the same degree as ASSET. This short stress measurement tool offers benefits for practitioners and researchers due to quicker completion times and potentially higher response rates. Furthermore, a short measure is easier to use at multiple time points, thus likely improving longitudinal data collection and the evaluation of interventions. This should serve to build a stronger knowledge base of intervention effectiveness, acknowledged as limited with regard to existing evidence.