Psychometric properties of the Persian version of Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire in College Students

Objectives This study aims to translate and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue) in college students. Methods This is a descriptive study. Participants were 551 students from selected universities in Tehran, Iran who were enrolled using a stratified random sampling method. The students completed the Persian version of TEIQue as well as the Schutte Self Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) and the Neo-Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Data were analyzed in SPSS v. 22 software using independent t-test, Cronbach's alpha, Pearson correlation and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Results The results of EFA confirmed that the Persian TEIQue had four factors of well-being, self-control, emotionality and sociability. Cronbach's alpha value was reported 0.95 for the global EI, and ranged 0.69-0.90 for its four factors. In the split-half reliability, the Cronbach's alpha was obtained 0.92 for the first half and 0.89 for the second half. The convergent/discriminant validity assessment in relation to SSEIT and NEO-FFI, showed a positive correlation with the most subscales of SSEIT and a negative correlation with the neuroticism subscale of NEO-FFI. There were gender differences in TEIQue scores between males and females, where females had higher scores in the global index and in factors of well-being and emotionality. Conclusion The Persian version of TEIQue has acceptable reliability and validity for measuring trait emotional intelligence in Iranian adult population.