Part I: Getting Started with the EQ-i 2.0

Introduction

Overview of the EQ-i 2.0

The EQ-i 2.0 consists of 133 brief items using a five-point response scale. It takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete the EQ‑i 2.0, but there are no imposed time limits. The EQ-i 2.0 is suitable for individuals 18 years of age and older. The assessment provides

• a total EI score,
• five composite scale scores, and
• fifteen subscale scores. The 15 subscales of the EQ-i are depicted in Figure 1.1 and are described in more detail in The EQ-i 2.0 Framework.

EQ‑i 2.0 raw scores are converted into standard scores based on a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15. As with the EQ-i, raw scores are of limited value on their own. Converting raw scores to standard scores facilitates comparison of the respondent’s scores to the scores of the normative sample and, theoretically, to the rest of the population. High EQ‑i 2.0 scores (above 100), as with the previous version, indicate emotionally intelligent people, while lower scores indicate a need to improve emotional skills in specific areas. This scoring structure is similar to the IQ scoring structure, which is divided into subscale scores that describe the various aspects of cognitive intelligence—hence the term “EQ” (Emotional Quotient), coined by Dr. Reuven Bar-On in 1985 to describe this parallel approach.

The EQ-i 2.0 has excellent psychometric properties and is scientifically derived like its predecessor. The relationship between the two assessments suggests that they are measuring the same thing. For a detailed look at the psychometric properties of the EQ‑i 2.0 and how these new figures compare to the original assessment, please refer to EQ-i 2.0 Stages of Development.