Reliability and validity of a self‐report emotional expressivity measure: The <scp>J</scp>apanese version of the <scp>B</scp>erkeley <scp>E</scp>xpressivity <scp>Q</scp>uestionnaire

Abstract

AIM: This study developed the Japanese version of the Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire (BEQ), a self-report measure of three emotional expressivity facets, and provided evidence of its reliability and validity. METHODS: Five hundred and four students answered an online survey. To determine test-retest reliability, 241 of the participants completed the Japanese version of the BEQ again approximately 1 month after initial surveying was completed. RESULTS: Cronbach's alpha coefficients were 0.83 for the BEQ full scale, and 0.61-0.77 for subscales. Test-retest correlations were 0.61 for the full scale, and 0.57-0.61 for subscales. Construct validity was demonstrated by correlations between BEQ scores and scores on measures of emotional expressivity, self-monitoring, self-esteem, depression, "Big Five" (neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness) personality traits, and emotional control. CONCLUSION: The Japanese version of the BEQ has adequate internal consistency, reliability, and construct validity. Test-retest reliability was lower than that of the original scale. This study was the first in Japan to develop a self-rating questionnaire assessing multiple facets of emotional expressivity.