Validation of a French Version of the Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire

• Published in: Journal of sports science & medicine 2018-12, Vol.17 (4), p.656
• Main Authors: Gesbert, Vincent, von Roten, Fabienne C, Hauw, Denis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Athletes; Evaluation; Health surveys; Psychological aspects; Translations and translating
• ISSN: 1303-2968; 1303-2968

This study sought to validate the psychometric properties of a French-language version of the Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire (PCDEQ). Data were gathered from 305 athletes in French-speaking Switzerland (mean age: 16.6 yr, SD: 2.9). Translation of the PCDEQ followed established guidelines and included a standardized back-translation process. The psychometric properties were examined by descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alphas for internal reliability, confirmatory factor analysis, intraclass correlations and a paired t-test for test-retest reliability. The results provided evidence of validity of the French version of the PCDEQ. Two items were excluded for low factor loading, and the re-specified model was improved and confirmed the six-dimensional structure with acceptable fit using most criteria ([chi square]2/df), RMSEA, SRMR, TFI, CFI). Cronbach's alpha also indicated that internal reliability was adequate for validation. Given the adequate psychometric properties, the French-version PCDEQ can be used with confidence for monitoring and designing interventions to enable aspiring athletes or artists to develop the psychological skills and characteristics that can act as important catalysts for their development.