The development and validation of a theory-based expatriate adjustment scale

This study investigates the dimensionality of a new theoretically based measure of expatriate adjustment using a sample of 825 expatriates drawn from a broad range of home and host countries. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses identified a stable 10-factor structure with good psychometric properties. This study also presents supporting validity evidence for the new scale from a sample of 209 expatriates. This new measure of expatriate adjustment is shown to relate to assignment performance, assignment development and general satisfaction. Compared with past measures, this measure is based on (1) the full content domain of expatriate adjustment facets and (2) the theoretical underpinnings of adjustment, including the link between the environment in the person-environment fit relationship and the role of the person in this individually based state (i.e. not all facets of expatriate adjustment are of equal importance for all individuals).