EXPLORATORYFACTORANALYSISONSCHUTTESELF-REPORTEMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCESCALE(SSREI)WITHREFERENCETOMYSTERYSHOPPERS

Abstract

Aim: Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is used to generate a theory by exploring the factors which account for the variations and interrelationships of the manifested variables used in the study. Shuttle’s Emotional Intelligence scale has been widely used by many researchers on various target respondents. “Mystery shoppers” being highlighted in this study are the respondents on whom the scale constructs are used to draw data. Background: Emotional Intelligence and its variables have to be studied in depth among mystery shoppers as the results would helps them to be balanced even during the tough time of their profession if taken into consideration. In-order to estimate Emotional Intelligence Schutte’s Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Inventory has been used. Method: The sample consisted of 238 mystery shoppers from every sector as they do mystery shopping assignments in various industries. The data has been collected using convenient sampling method and snowball sampling method. A previously developed and validated questionnaire addressing five variables such as appraisal of own emotions, appraisal of others’ emotions, regulation of own emotions, utilization of emotions and regulation of others’ emotions are assessed. This is tested on a five point Likert scale. Summary: This study is an analysis of 33 variables associated with various facet of EI. A total of 238 mystery shoppers participated in the study. Utilizing Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) techniques, the research examined relationships among the following variables: Components were extracted using Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and orthogonally rotated resulting in three component solution. Appraisal of own emotions is positively correlated as given in Shuttle’s EI research but the other variables are not correlated but they exist being positive. Thus it is clear enough that factors such as appraisal, utilization and regulation of self and others emotions is very vital for a mystery shopper to be successful in career and in personal life.