Salvatore Maddi's Hardiness Survey

This hardiness test is based on the model developed by American psychologist Salvatore Maddi, who introduced the concept of hardiness in 1984.

Hardiness refers to a person's ability to stay grounded and effective under pressure — without burning out or falling apart. The concept grew out of Maddi's research on why some people thrive under chronic stress while others struggle.

Maddi identified three attitudes at the core of hardiness. People high in commitment stay invested in what they're doing rather than giving up when things get hard. Those with a strong sense of control believe their actions can influence outcomes — they don't feel helpless. And people who embrace challenge tend to see difficult situations as a chance to learn rather than something to survive. The more of these attitudes a person has, the better they typically handle stress.

Hardiness typically develops in childhood and adolescence, though growth in this trait is possible later in life as well.

Hardiness overlaps with optimism and some Big Five traits, but it captures something different and is worth measuring on its own.

Research identifies hardiness as a key variable that buffers the impact of stress on physical and mental health, and supports successful adaptation to new activities, cultures, and social environments.