State 2 involved exploratory factor analyses of the 96-item scale. In this stage, a sample of 371 children and adolescents (160 males and 211 females) between the ages of 7 and 18 years was used. The mean age for the sample was 13.4 years. Participants were from several different schools in the United States and Canada. A 4-factor model emerged using exploratory factor analysis with a varimax rotation. This model, which used 30 items, was identical in the younger (12 years and younger) and older (13 years and older) respondents. This model matched closely with four of the five meta-factorial dimensions from the adult Bar-On EQ-i ™ (intrapersonal, interpersonal, stress management, and adaptability). A separate series of exploratory factor analyses with a set of happiness and optimism items produced a 12-item general mood factor. An additional separate series of exploratory factor analyses with a set of positive impression (validity) items produced a 6-item Positive Impression factor. Based on these exploratory factor analyses, 48 items from the original item pool were retained for subsequent scale development