Abstract

Research in positive psychology has revealed the need to examine psychological constructs such as grit and self-control that are vital in shaping predicting and influencing human development and performance. Limited empirical work has assessed the relationships that exist between grit and self-control as they are significant protective mechanisms in promoting positive individual mental health and well-being. Through several structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques, the present study bridges this gap to evaluate the relationship between these two constructs. Recruiting participants (N = 107) from a private U.S. military university (N = 107), military cadet participants completed the Grit Scale and the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS). Bi-variate correlations matrixes showed significant relationships between self-control and grit. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) suggested bi-factor models for grit and self-control. Supplementary CFAs revealed a two-factor model structure between grit and self-control. Recommendations for future research are provided.