Beyond negative affectivity: Measuring stress and satisfaction in the workplace.

TLDR: In this article, the authors present a two-factor model of stress and satisfaction that includes, in addition to negative affectivity, the independent factor of positive affectivity (PA), a trait reflecting positive feelings about oneself and one's life.

Abstract: Stress researchers frequently use self-report measures to assess stress, health, psychological adjustment, and subjective dissatisfaction. We present evidence demonstrating that all of these variables are highly intercorrelated and reflect a common underlying factor of Negative Affectivity (NA). NA is a stable and pervasive personality dimension-high NA individuals report more stress, distress and physical complaints, even in the absence of any objective stressor or health problem. Thus, NA may operate as a substantial nuisance factor in many areas of research. To circumvent its influence, investigators can use non-subjective measures of stress and health. Finally, we present a two-factor model of stress and satisfaction that includes, in addition to NA, the independent factor of Positive Affectivity (PA), a trait reflecting positive feelings about oneself and one's life.