2 - (SYM 105) Exploring Curiosity Among Kenyan Adolescents: Validation of the Curiosity and Exploration Inventory-ii and Predictors of Trait Curiosity

Curiosity is a fundamental character strength that drives exploration, motivation, learning, and growth, and is particularly relevant in sub-Saharan Africa, where youth face unique challenges and stressors. However, research on curiosity in sub-Saharan African populations is scarce. Thus, we sought to validate the Curiosity and Exploration Inventory-II (CEI-II) as a measure of trait curiosity among Kenyan high school students and to examine the correlates and predictors of curiosity in this population.

We conducted a baseline assessment with 375 high school students participating in a trial of a classroom-based arts and literacy program called Pre-texts. Pre-texts aims to promote critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration through engaging with literature and the arts. In addition to curiosity, measures of school climate, social support, anxiety and depression were taken.

We found that the CEI-II was a useful tool to capture trait curiosity in this population. This measure demonstrated good internal consistency, showed convergent validity with social support, and discriminant validity with depression. When parallel analysis, scree plot, and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted, a one-factor solution was the best-fitting model, differing from the original two-factor structure. Curiosity was significantly predicted by school climate, anxiety, social support from family and significant others. Males reported higher trait curiosity than females.

Researchers aiming to promote youth flourishing in low- and middle-income countries such as Kenya should consider the role of curiosity. The CEI-II can be a valuable tool to measure impact of such interventions. This study provides initial evidence that the CEI-II provides reliable and valid measurement with this population. The findings also provide insights into the factors associated with curiosity. The validation of a measure for curiosity that is appropriate for the Kenyan context will enable researchers in this region to better understand the role of curiosity in the psychosocial development of adolescents.