Validating the Multidimensional Measure of Cultural Identity Scales for Latinos Among Latina Mothers and Daughters

The psychometric properties of the Multidimensional Measure of Cultural Identity Scales for Latinos (MMCISL; Félix-Ortiz, Newcomb, & Myers, 1994) have never been examined in an adult Latina sample representing various levels of nativity and nationality. The rationale for the study was to confirm the factor structure and psychometric properties of the MMCISL with a predominantly immigrant sample of Latina mothers and daughters (n = 316). Adequate reliability estimates were found for 6 of the original 10 scales. Confirmatory factor analyses provided evidence of construct validity for the reliable scales. The Preferred Latino Affiliation scale was the only scale to meet strict measurement invariance criteria across mothers and daughters. Criterion validity was evidenced by relations between the Familiarity with Latino Culture scale and all criterion variables. Implications for acculturation and cultural identity research involving the MMCISL are discussed.