To grit or not to grit, that is the question!

Alexander T. Vazsonyi, Albert J. Ksinan, Gabriela Ksinan Jiskrova, Jakub Mikuška, Magda Javakhishvili, Guangyi Cui

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

59 Scopus citations

Abstract

The current study tested the validity of grit as a non-cognitive construct related to, yet distinct from self-control. Data were collected from N = 1907 adults spanning the life-course (53.1% female, M age = 41.4 years). Associations between grit and present and past goals were very similar to ones observed with self-control. Extensive model tests using structural equation modeling provided evidence of substantial overlap between these two constructs, calling into question the conceptual and empirical distinctiveness of grit vis-à-vis self-control, as well as the importance of grit as a unique and independent characteristic salient for the pursuit and achievement of long-term goals. This finding was consistent and invariant across adult developmental periods. Study implications for grit-investment are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)215-226
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Research in Personality
Volume78
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2019

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2018 The Authors

Keywords

  • Educational goals
  • Occupational goals
  • Self-control
  • Self-discipline
  • Self-regulation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • General Psychology

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