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Session G9

Tracks
Stream G (Ground)
Sunday, May 18, 2025
1:45 PM - 2:45 PM
Central Room B & C | PURPLE (Ground floor)

Overview

- Novel Psychological Instrument for Measuring Mental Toughness and Implications for PsyCap | Jennifer Dorling (30 mins)


Presenter

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Ms Jennifer Linda Dorling
Bond University

Novel Psychological Instrument for Measuring Mental Toughness and Implications for PsyCap

1:45 PM - 2:15 PM

Abstract

Novel Psychological Instrument for Measuring Mental Toughness and Implications for Psychological Capital (PsyCap)

This research investigates the conceptualisation and measurement of Mental Toughness (MT) in high-performance environments, specifically among individual athletes and team sports participants. Initial investigations employed the Repertory Grid technique and Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) analyses to elucidate personal constructs of MT. Subsequent thematic analysis identified six novel domains of MT: Discipline, Motivation, Perseverance, Self-Belief, Tenacity, and Leadership.

Mental Toughness is essential for performance under duress and has been extensively explored within sports contexts. Psychological Capital (PsyCap), encompassing Hope, Self-Efficacy, Resilience, and Optimism, serves as a theoretical model for employee well-being. This research seeks to determine whether MT functions as a moderator for PsyCap, potentially enhancing its explanatory power and applicability across both sports and organisational settings.

The development of the Dorling Mental Toughness Questionnaire (DMTQ30) was informed by the newly identified MT domains. This instrument underwent validation through expert panel reviews and empirical testing with participant cohorts, ensuring robust content validity, construct validity, and reliability. The incorporation of these new domains within the DMTQ30 facilitates a more comprehensive assessment of MT, capturing dimensions previously underrepresented in existing measures.

Findings from the thematic analysis highlight the multifaceted nature of MT, emphasising its role within high-performance contexts. The refined conceptualisation of MT as a potential moderator of PsyCap presents implications for both theoretical advancement and practical application. This research underscores the necessity of context-specific measurement tools, providing a foundation for subsequent investigations and interventions aimed at enhancing resilience and performance in high-stress environments.

The aim of this presentation is to share the comprehensive research process, including the identification of new MT domains, the development and testing of the novel instrument, and the implications of these findings for PsyCap. Additionally, the presentation will explore the relationship between MT and the Big Five personality traits, demonstrating the instrument's novelty and impact compared to existing tools. The goal is to provide valuable insights for both academic research and practical applications in psychology and organisational settings.

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Jennifer is a dynamic professional currently pursuing a PhD in psychology at Bond University, QLD. Her research focuses on mental toughness, its conceptualisation, measurement, and implications for Psychological Capital as well as their relationship with personality traits. She examines MT among athletes and in high-demand environments, with applications extending to organisational settings. With over 12 years of international experience in organisational change, leadership development, transformations, and consulting across diverse industries,Jennifer holds a Bachelor's degree from the International University for Cooperative Education (IBA), Berlin, and an MSc in psychology and business from Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. Her expertise includes managing change projects, fostering organisational performance, and coaching senior leaders. She excels in building stakeholder relationships,securing commitment to change initiatives,and providing high-level specialist advice. Known for her resilience,adaptability,and collaborative spirit,Jennifer is also a competitive mixed martial arts athlete involved in career guidance for postgraduate students and advocates for homelessness initiatives and literacy programs.
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