Which DEOCS item best measures connectedness?

Which DEOCS item best measures connectedness?

• A. These days, I feel like I belong
• B. These days, I feel that there are people I can turn to in times of need
• C. These days, I think I make things worse for the people in my life
• D. My future seems dark to me

Answer: (A)

Connectedness is about feeling integrated with and belonging to the group, a sense of being part of the team and connected to others around you. The item that asks “These days, I feel like I belong” directly taps this sense of belonging and inclusion, which is the core of connectedness. The other statements touch related, but distinct, ideas: having people I can turn to in times of need measures perceived social support rather than overall belonging; thinking I make things worse for the people in my life reflects negative self-perception and interpersonal impact; and feeling that my future seems dark relates to hopelessness rather than connections with others.

Connectedness is about feeling integrated with and belonging to the group, a sense of being part of the team and connected to others around you. The item that asks “These days, I feel like I belong” directly taps this sense of belonging and inclusion, which is the core of connectedness.

The other statements touch related, but distinct, ideas: having people I can turn to in times of need measures perceived social support rather than overall belonging; thinking I make things worse for the people in my life reflects negative self-perception and interpersonal impact; and feeling that my future seems dark relates to hopelessness rather than connections with others.