Validating the Short Version of the Multidimensional Emotional Competence Questionnaire

Abstract

Abstract. The short version of the Multidimensional Emotional Competence Questionnaire (MECQ-s) is a competence-based questionnaire with a multidimensional framework assessing emotional competence. It consists of 32 items divided into 11 factors representing four dimensions: perception of one's own emotions, perception others’ emotions, emotional expressivity, and emotional management. Three studies (Ntotal = 1,333) were conducted to validate the MECQ-s. Overall, reliability estimates were good (α = .72–.80 and ω = .71–.79). The results of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory structural equation modelling (ESEM) corroborated the multidimensional structure of the MECQ-s and proved to be satisfactory. Correlations of the MECQ-s with scales of experiencing emotions provide evidence for convergent validity. A nomological network of measures including the Big Five personality, self-regulation, and self-efficacy indicates that the MECQ-s proved good nomological and discriminant validity. The results for measurement invariance and test–retest reliability were satisfactory. The MECQ-s proved to have satisfactory psychometrics and can be used to evaluate emotional competence.

Keywords

• emotional competence
• validity
• test–retest reliability
• exploratory structural equation modelling
• measurement invariance