The Cross-Cultural Loss Scale: development and psychometric evaluation

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Cross-cultural studies

Background:

• International students face unique challenges adapting to new national environments.
• Quantifying the psychological impact of cultural transitions is crucial for support services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the Cross-Cultural Loss Scale (CCLS) for international students.
• To assess the psychometric properties and validity of the CCLS.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on two samples of international students (N=262, N=256).
• Reliability (Cronbach's alpha) and validity were assessed through associations with related psychological constructs.
• Measurement invariance across gender was examined.

Main Results:

• The CCLS demonstrated a robust 3-factor structure: Belonging-Competency, National Privileges, and Access to Home Familiarity.
• CCLS scores showed expected associations with negative affect, life satisfaction, and social connection.
• The scale significantly predicted subjective well-being, indicating incremental validity.

Conclusions:

• The Cross-Cultural Loss Scale (CCLS) is a psychometrically sound instrument for measuring cross-cultural losses in international students.
• The CCLS provides valuable insights into the challenges of migration and cultural adaptation.
• The scale exhibits measurement invariance, supporting its use across genders.