Psychometric Properties of the 10-Item Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ10): The Persian Version

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ms Student, Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humantes, University of Semnan, Semnan, Iran.

2 Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humantes, University of Semnan, Semnan, Iran.

Abstract

Purpose: Mental toughness is a psychological characteristic encompassing an individual’s capacity to effectively manage pressure, overcome obstacles, and persevere through setbacks. This construct includes components such as psychological flexibility, commitment, refocusing ability, self-confidence, challenge orientation, optimism, and adaptive coping. The purpose of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the 10-item Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ10) within an Iranian athletic population.
Methods: This methodological study employed a cross-sectional design. The statistical population consisted of all male and female athletes aged 18 and above in Tehran Province. A sample of 151 athletes was selected via cluster random sampling. Participants completed the Persian version of the MTQ10, which was adapted from the longer MTQ48. Face validity and translation accuracy were assessed by a panel of relevant experts. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, and construct validity was examined through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).
Results: The expert review confirmed the face validity and translation accuracy of the questionnaire. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated an excellent model fit: Comparative Fit Index CFI=0.99, Goodness-of-Fit Index GFI= 0.96, and RMSEA= 0.038. Furthermore, the internal consistency for the entire scale and all subscales exceeded 0.80.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that the Persian version of the 10-item Mental Toughness Questionnaire (MTQ10) is a valid and reliable instrument. It is suitable for use in assessing mental toughness among athletes in Iran.

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