A bi-factor model of cultural intelligence: comparison with four-factor and hierarchical models

The bi-factor CQ model reconciles the longstanding debate in the CQ literature over whether CQ is better conceptualized as a correlated four-factor model or a 2nd-order single-factor model. This chapter highlights key conceptual differences between these two CQ models and the recently introduced bi-factor model and compares them empirically. Results, based on 455 members working in multicultural teams, show that (a) the bi-factor CQ model fits the empirical data better than the four-factor and 2nd-order CQ models, (b) the holistic (i.e., general) CQ factor predicts observer-rated task performance, and (c) metacognitive and behavioral CQ predict task performance, over and above the holistic CQ factor. These findings strengthen the generalizability of prior meta-analytic findings supporting a bi-factor CQ model and provide a roadmap for researchers to apply the bi-factor CQ model in primary studies. We discuss the implications of these findings for theorizing about CQ and suggest directions for future research.