Assessing the measurement invariance of the four-dimensional cultural intelligence scale across countries: A composite model approach

Abstract Over the past decade, the cultural intelligence construct and its underlying dimensions have been used in a number of studies. Prior research has tested the determinants and outcomes of cultural intelligence, using pooled data from different countries and cultures, and has compared the results across contexts. However, these studies often disregarded measurement invariance, which is a necessary requirement for such analyses. We assess the measurement invariance of the commonly used four-dimensional cultural intelligence scale across five countries (China, France, Germany, Turkey, and the U.S.) by means of a composite model logic, using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Our results question the scale's dimensionality concerning China and France, and reveal an item set that is invariant across the other countries. Our findings indicate that researchers should be aware of the potential lack of measurement invariance regarding the standard measurement of cultural intelligence. They should therefore be cautious when comparing the results of cross-country and cross-cultural research.