The Factorial Structure of the Positive Thinking Scale among Graduate Students (A Case Study of Tabuk University)

The aim of the research was to identify the factorial structure of the Positive Thinking Scale among graduate students, using confirmatory factor analysis, the level of positive thinking among graduate students, and the differences in the dimensions of positive thinking among graduate students, according to two variables: (gender and specialization). To achieve the research objectives, a descriptive analytical approach was used, and a scale was designed consisting of 36 items distributed across five dimensions (optimism and positive expectation, self-discipline and control of higher-level mental processes, mindfulness, critical thinking, and unconditional self-acceptance). The scale was applied to a stratified random sample of (325) male and female students from Tabuk University, drawn from a population of all graduate students at Tabuk University for the academic year 1445-1446 AH, totaling (2221) students. The research concluded with results, including: the results showed that the indicators of validity and reliability for the tool were good and achieved high estimates of the (standard regression coefficients), and the results showed indicators of model fit. The positive thinking scale complies with recognized statistical standards, as indicated by the values of the fit indices: the Comparative Fit Index (CFI) is 0.922, the Incremental Fit Index (IFI) is also 0.922, and the Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) is 0.914. Based on these indicators, the proposed model for the positive thinking scale is statistically acceptable. In light of the results, recommendations were presented, the most notable of which include: enhancing the aspects of positive thinking within academic programs and student activities in graduate studies, and integrating concepts of positive thinking into university curricula and courses that address research and thinking skills.