Research by Petrides et al. (2011) took the preliminary steps towards validating the construct of trait social intelligence (trait SI) subsequent to the validation of trait emotional intelligence, with which trait SI shows significant... more
Research by Petrides et al. (2011) took the preliminary steps towards validating the construct of trait social intelligence (trait SI) subsequent to the validation of trait emotional intelligence, with which trait SI shows significant overlap, as a construct located within the personality factor circumplex yet distinct from other traits within the personality hierarchies and from other forms of intelligence. The current study aims to further validate trait SI as a construct distinct from yet compounded within the personality space. Standard regression and hierarchical regression analyses were carried out to assess the predictive and incremental validity of the trait SI construct. Results showed a significant, positive correlation between the measure of trait SI- the TSIQue- and all Big Five personality factors, as measured by the IPIP. These findings further validate trait SI as a valid construct by demonstrating its predictive validity. However, there was little evidence as revealed by the hierarchical regression analyses that trait SI can account for variance over and above the Big Five factors. Nevertheless, the results of an inter-item reliability analysis performed as part of this study underline the reliability of the TSIQue as a self-report measure of trait SI, in addition to alternative SI measures, which ought to be regarded as useful tools of measurement for their respective sampling domains. The findings of the current study are a step beyond preliminary towards validating the trait SI construct, providing evidence to support the theory that trait SI is a valid, distinct construct located along the lower-levels of the personality trait hierarchies. The evidence additionally challenges theoretical evaluations of trait SI as a personality trait indiscernible from other personality traits.
Psychiatric practice is dependent on particular social, cultural and moral judgements about the ways in which individuals grapple with 'being human'(Jenner et al, 1993). This is one reason why it is important to develop and... more
Psychiatric practice is dependent on particular social, cultural and moral judgements about the ways in which individuals grapple with 'being human'(Jenner et al, 1993). This is one reason why it is important to develop and defend spaces in which psychiatric judgement ...
