Factor analysis of the Spanish version of the Q-Set Attachment Questionnaire

Introduction: The Attachment Q-set Version 3.0 (AQS) is an instrument that allows for the evaluation of individual differences in attachment security during the preschool stage. Objective: To determine the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Attachment Q-Set (AQS) 3.0 adapted to Ecuador, through the analysis of its factorial structure, validity, and reliability in Ecuadorian children aged 1 to 5 years. Methodology: This was an observational, descriptive, and correlational study with a quantitative approach. It was conducted at a single site using non-probability sampling. Data were collected from 71 families through institutional records from public and private Comprehensive Diagnostic Centers (CDIs), as well as UDIPSAI. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted, and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega. Results: The model showed poor fit (SRMR = 0.123; RMSEA = 0.101, 95% CI [0.093–0.109]; CFI = 0.486; TLI = 0.445). Significant loadings were found for key items such as I77 (0.73) and I18 (0.85; p < .001). Internal consistency was excellent for the total scale (α = 0.87; ω = 0.88), though subscale reliability varied (e.g., Z: α = 0.80; V: α = 0.30). Conclusions: Despite limitations in model fit and subscale consistency, the Spanish version of AQS 3.0 adapted to the Ecuadorian context demonstrated high overall reliability, supporting its future use in attachment assessment in children under 5 years of age.