Psychometric validation of brief scales for loneliness at work in Korea: the Three-Item Scale for Loneliness at Work (SLAW-3) and Single-Item Scale for Loneliness at Work (SLAW-1).

BACKGROUND

Workplace loneliness is an emerging psychosocial risk factor in the occupational health context, but comprehensive assessment instruments are often impractical if large workforce surveys are planned. This study evaluated the measurement properties of two brief workplace loneliness indicators: the Single-Item Scale for Loneliness at Work (SLAW-1) and the Three-Item Scale for Loneliness at Work (SLAW-3).

METHODS

Data were obtained from a nationwide online survey of Korean employees (n = 1,000), with proportional sampling by sex, age, and occupation. A subsample (n = 200) underwent 4-week follow-up to assess test-retest reliability. Internal consistency and confirmatory factor analysis were examined for SLAW-3, whereas test-retest reliability was assessed for SLAW-1. Criterion validity was tested against a single-item measure of general loneliness. Convergent validity was examined by deriving correlations with occupational stress and psychological distress, work performance, work engagement, and well-being.

RESULTS

SLAW-3 demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.883) and was consistent with a single-factor interpretation. SLAW-1 exhibited moderate 4-week test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.603). Both scales were associated with workplace loneliness and related psychological and occupational variables, in the expected directions. SLAW-1 was more strongly related to general loneliness, whereas SLAW-3 evidenced stronger associations with workplace loneliness.

CONCLUSIONS

SLAW-1 and SLAW-3 appear to be practical brief indicators of workplace loneliness. SLAW-1 may be appropriate for rapid screening, whereas SLAW-3 offers a more context-specific assessment in terms of occupational health research and monitoring.