Abstract

Work engagement is described by dedication, vigor and absorption. The most used work engagement measure is the Utrecht Work Engagament Scale (UWES). The objective of this research is to study the psychometric properties of the abbreviated version of this scale (UWES-9) in the Chilean labor context. A cross-sectional survey design was used for a convenience sample (n = 255). The survey used the UWES-9 scale (Schaufeli & Bakker, 2003), the psychological empowerment scale of Spreitzer (1995) and the generic job satisfaction scale (Macdonald & Maclntyre, 1997). The reliability index (alpha) was calculated, giving a good intemal consistency. The three dimensions of the scale were correlated to a large extent, so it was not necessary to eliminate items. With respect to construct validity, work engagement was correlated in the expected (positive) direction with psychological empowerment and job satisfaction. Managerial implications and challenges for future research are discussed.