Factorial Validity of the Theory of Mind Inventory-2 in Typically Developing Children

The Theory of Mind Inventory-2 (ToMI-2) is a promising measure for assessing theory of mind (ToM) and social-related functions. However, limited evidence on its factorial validity hampers score interpretation. To examine the factorial validity, confirmatory factor analysis for two currently-available structures was performed in 420 typically developing children aged three to seven years. One, the development-based structure, contains three stages of ToM development: the early, basic, and advanced ToM stages. The other, the social-related structure, comprises three social-related ToM functions: emotion recognition, mental state term comprehension, and pragmatics. The results showed that these structures and the unidimensionality of each domain were not supported even after modifications. Thus, further revisions and examinations of the underlying structures of the ToMI-2 are needed.

Automated summary

The Theory of Mind Inventory-2 (ToMI-2) is a measure for assessing theory of mind (ToM) and social-related functions, but limited evidence on its factorial validity was found in this study. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on two currently-available structures in typically developing children, and it was found that these structures and the unidimensionality of each domain were not supported even after modifications. Further revisions and examinations of the underlying structures of the ToMI-2 are needed.