Abstract
The Overexcitability Questionnaire-Two (OEQ-II) measures the degree and nature of overexcitability, which assists in determining the developmental potential of an individual according to Dabrowski's Theory of Positive Disintegration. Previous validation studies using frequentist confirmatory factor analysis, which postulates exact parameter constraints, led to model rejection and a long series of model modifications. Bayesian structural equation modeling (BSEM) allows the application of zero-mean, small-variance priors for cross-loadings, residual covariances, and differences in measurement parameters across groups, better reflecting substantive theory and leading to better model fit and less overestimation of factor correlations. Our BSEM analysis with a sample of 516 students in higher education yields positive results regarding the factorial validity of the OEQ-II. Likewise, applying BSEM-based alignment with approximate measurement invariance, the absence of non-invariant factor loadings and intercepts across gender is supportive of the psychometric quality of the OEQ-II. Compared to males, females scored significantly higher on emotional and sensual overexcitability, and significantly lower on psychomotor overexcitability.
Highlights
Overexcitability within Dabrowski’s Theory of Positive DisintegrationDabrowski (1902–1980), a Polish psychiatrist and psychologist, developed the Theory of Positive Disintegration, which centers on heightened excitability in individuals, as well as on their drive, and their urge to resist conformity and complacency (Daniels and Piechowski, 2009)
The mean outcomes are consistent with all other studies using the Overexcitability Questionnaire-Two (OEQ-II), in which the two highest scores have been for emotional, intellectual, or psychomotor overexcitability (Falk and Miller, 2009)
Significant chi-square statistics, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) values of more than 0.05, and comparative fit index (CFI) values of less than 0.90 all indicate that the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) models for females and males fit the data poorly
Summary
Dabrowski (1902–1980), a Polish psychiatrist and psychologist, developed the Theory of Positive Disintegration, which centers on heightened excitability in individuals, as well as on their drive, and their urge to resist conformity and complacency (Daniels and Piechowski, 2009). Achieving the highest level of human development—or enacting the personality ideal— depends on the developmental potential of an individual, which is determined by the individual’s level of innate heightened excitability (overexcitability) and the presence of specific talents, abilities, and autonomous inner forces that cultivate growth (dynamisms). Emotional overexcitability involves an intense connectedness with others, as well as the ability to experience things deeply, strong affective and somatic expressions, sensitivity in relationships, responsiveness to others, and well-differentiated feelings toward self (Silverman, 2008; Daniels and Piechowski, 2009). Dabrowski considers the last three forms of overexcitability essential to advanced personality development (Dabrowski, 1972; Mendaglio, 2008)
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