The Scale of Hope is a psychological tool used to measure an individual's level of optimism about their future. Developed by Charles R. Snyder and colleagues in 1991, the scale consists of 12 items that assess two dimensions of hope: agency (the belief that one can achieve goals) and pathways (the belief that one can find multiple ways to achieve those goals). Higher scores on the Scale of Hope are associated with positive outcomes such as better coping skills, higher self-esteem, and greater resilience in the face of challenges. The scale has been widely used in research and clinical settings to assess hope in various populations, including people with chronic illnesses, mental health conditions, and those facing life stressors.
