A Test of the Multidimensionality of the Self-Construal Scale in Thailand and the United States

Abstract

In this study, the authors examined a series of nested confirmatory factor analytic models to assess the multidimensionality of the Self-Construal Scale (SCS) in Thailand and the United States. The authors compared the original two-factor model with the more recently developed six-factor model and examined model fit for cross-cultural invariance. Results suggested a substantially better fit to the data for the six-factor model in the American sample, replicating Hardin et al.’s findings. However, in the Thai sample, five items did not load on any factor and a number of other items cross-loaded or were significantly related to a different factor than specified by the two- or six-factor models. The failure to demonstrate configural invariance implies that the SCS and perhaps self-construal itself cannot necessarily be assumed to be a universal construct.