Development of the Workplace Health Promotion Perception Scale

Abstract

In this study, we developed a scale to assess employee perceptions of the presence of workplace health promotion (WHP) programs within their organizational environment. After reviewing the literature and following the social-ecological model of health, 14 scale items were generated and initially tested with university staff and students. From these analyses and feedback from reviewers, six items were removed. The remaining eight items were completed by an independent sample of employees in various companies. A two-factor model fit the data well, assessing the perceived support provided by the organization, such as financial support for health improvements at work, and the strategic approach of the organization in addressing workplace health, such as holding meetings and training about improving health. The sub-scales and total score were found to be internally consistent/reliable (α = 0.85 and 0.79, respectively), and correlated significantly with a work performance measure in one of the samples. The new Workplace Health Promotion Perception (WHPP) scale demonstrates initially sound measurement properties for use in organizations, although further research is suggested, and examples provided.