Cross-cultural Validity of Self-construal Scales

—— An investigation of differential item functioning using multigroup mean and covariance structure ——

Abstract

The purpose of study was to test validity of self-construal scales through an examination of differential item functioning (DIF) using multigroup mean and covariance structure (MG-MACS) analysis. The data analyzed were composed of 368 Japanese and 152 European Americans. A series of MG-MACS analyses was conducted on 6 items, which have displayed two-factor model of self-construal in the previous studies. As a result, no items demonstrated nonuniform DIF, though uniform DIF was detected on two items. Since the number of DIF items was small and partial factorial invariance was established, factor mean comparisons were conducted. Consistent with the theories of self-construal, Japanese participants were significantly higher on interdependent self-construal and were significantly lower on independent self-construal than the American counterparts. Based on the results of DIF analyses and factor mean comparisons, cross-cultural validity of self-construal scales was discussed.