The capability set for work: Development and validation of a new questionnaire.

F.I. Abma, S. Brouwer, H.J. de Vries, I. Arends, S.J. Robroek, M.P.J. Cuijpers, G.J. van der Wilt, U. Bültmann, J.J.L. van der Klink

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

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Abstract

Objectives 
The aim of this study was to develop a questionnaire to measure work capabilities based on Amartya Sen’s capability approach and evaluate its validity.
Methods 
The development of the questionnaire was based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods: interviews, literature study, and an expert meeting. Additionally, in a survey, the validity was evaluated by means of hypotheses testing (using correlations and regression analyses).
Results 
The questionnaire consists of a set of seven capability aspects for work. For each aspect, it is determined whether it is part of a worker’s capability set, ie, when the aspect is considered valuable, is enabled in work, and is realized. The capability set was significantly correlated with work role functioning-flexibility demands (-0,187), work ability (-0.304), work performance (-0.282), worked hours (-0.073), sickness absence (yes/no) (0.098), and sickness absence days (0.105). The capability set and the overall capability item are significantly associated with all work outcomes (P<0.010).
Conclusions 
The new capability set for work questionnaire appears to be a valid instrument to measure work capabilities. The questionnaire is unique because the items include the valued aspects of work and incorporate whether a worker is able to achieve what (s)he values in his/her work. The questionnaire can be used to evaluate the capability set of workers in organizations to identify aspects that need to be addressed in interventions.Key terms: Amartya Sen; capability approach; capability set for work; questionnaire; questionnaire development; sustainable employability; validation; work
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)34-42
JournalScandinavian Journal of Work and Environmental Health
Volume42
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016

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