Validation of a dutch measure for implicit theories of ability in sport (CNAAQ-2-NL)

Our goal was to validate the Conceptions of the Nature of Athletic Abilities Questionnaire (CNAAQ-2) in a Dutch context. We conducted three studies to examine its psychometric qualities. In Study 1 we performed exploratory factor analyses on two samples (N = 400, and N = 341), which supported a solution of four factors labeled entity-stable, entity-gift, incremental-learning, and incremental-improvement. A confirmatory factor analysis showed an acceptable fit of a four-plus-two higher-order factor model, with entity and incremental as higher-order factors. To further improve the psychometric properties, 25 items were added, and in Study 2 we merged three samples that were then randomly split in two halves. A principal component analysis of the first half of the data (N = 255) led to a selection of 21 items (the CNAAQ-2-NL), which was verified in a confirmatory factor analysis of the second half of the data (N = 255). The fit of a model with four lower-order factors (entity-stable, entity-gift, incremental-learning, and incremental-improvement) was acceptable, as was the fit of a four-plus-two higher-order factor model, with entity and incremental as higher-order factors. In Study 3 (N = 322) we administered the CNAAQ-2-NL along with other measures, at two points in time three weeks apart. Test-retest reliability was good, and convergent validity was supported by relations with Dweck’s measures of implicit theories of intelligence and sport abilities. Criterion-related validity was supported by relations with achievement goals. We conclude that the factor structure of the CNAAQ-2-NL was according to theory, and that validity was sufficiently supported. However, our findings also suggest that the role of implicit theories may be different in sport than in the context of intelligence and needs further investigation