About Hope Scale
The Hope Scales were created by Dr. C. R. Snyder and colleagues to measure two core parts of Hope:
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- Agency: the belief that you can take steps toward your goals.
- Pathways: the ability to find ways forward, even when obstacles arise.
There are two validated versions:
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- Ages 8–16: The Children’s Hope Scale
- Ages 17 and up: The Adult Hope Scale
These tools are widely used in research and practice. They are not medical tests, but simple measures that help you reflect on where you are in your Hope journey today. Scores naturally rise and fall with life experiences, and research shows that Hope can be strengthened with skills, practice, and support.

Sources
- Snyder, C. R., Harris, C., Anderson, J. R., Holleran, S. A., Irving, L. M., Sigmon, S. T., et al. (1991). The will and the ways: Development and validation of an individual-differences measure of hope. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 60, 570–585.
Snyder, C. R., Hoza, B., Pelham, W. E., Rapoff, M., Ware, L., Danovsky, M., Highberger, L., Rubinstein, H., & Stahl, K. J. (1997). The development and validation of the Children’s Hope Scale. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 22, 399–421.
Disclaimer
The scores on this self-assessment do not reflect any particular diagnosis or course of treatment. They are meant as a tool to help assess your level of Hope. If you have concerns about your current wellbeing or health, you are encouraged to share your results with a physician or healthcare provider.
The Shine Hope Company and iFred (International Foundation for Research and Education on Hope) maintain a data sharing agreement to better understand Hope across populations and improve the resources offered to individuals and communities. Your personal information will never be sold or shared with third parties outside this partnership.
The Shine Hope Company, iFred, and their partners disclaim any liability, loss, or risk incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from the use and application of these measures.