Cross-Cultural Validation of Holland's Theory in Singapore: Beyond Structural Validity of RIASEC

Abstract

Cross-cultural validation of Holland's theory typically focuses on the structural validity of the RIASEC model. This study not only examined structural validity, but the conceptual equivalence of RIASEC and the criterion-related validity of Holland's theory, based on college students from the major ethnic group in United States (White Americans) and Singapore (Chinese). Values were used to examine the convergent-discriminant validity and equivalence of meaning of RIASEC. Results indicate similar structural and criterion-related validity across the samples, although the figures were generally lower than those found in previous studies. Values were weakly related to the interest types. Some evidence of weak convergent validity was found for the I, S, and E types. Tests on these three types indicated that there was equivalence of meaning for the S and E types and the possibility of some culture-specific meaning attached to the I type. Implications for future research are discussed.