Exploring the cross-cultural equivalence of the behavioral assessment scale for intercultural communication

Abstract

Using Hui and Triandis's model of types of cross-cultural equivalence, the Behavioral Assessment Scale for Intercultural Communication (BASIC), an eight-item measure of intercultural communication competence is tested for its cross-cultural equivalence. The conceptual/functional equivalence of BASIC is logically argued from its sound theoretical foundation. Construct operationalization equivalence was tested by examining the factor structure of responses to BASIC by U.S. students and non-U.S. students. Item equivalence was examined by analysis of variance with degree of intercultural exposure in living situation as the independent variable and the absolute difference score between roommate pairs on each of the BASIC items and total score as dependent variables. A regression analysis to determine predictors among the eight items to an additional one item measure of communication effectiveness for U.S. students and non-U.S. students was done to test scalar equivalence. Results indicate preliminary support for BASIC's conceptual, construct operationalization and item equivalence. While the regression analysis produced equivocal results, several explanations are offered. Suggestions for future work to address the scale's equivalence are offered and the need to differentiate between cross-cultural and intercultural equivalence is discussed.