Communication accommodation theory in quantitative research: Toward a standardized operationalization of core constructs

Abstract

Communication accommodation theory (CAT) has been an influential theory for 50 years. However, its core constructs have not been operationalized consistently in quantitative research. In this manuscript, we report on efforts to standardize and validate a multi-dimensional instrument to measure constructs of theoretical importance in CAT. In Study 1 (n = 416), we detail the process through which items drawn from previous research were collated and describe six factors confirmed through factor analysis of the “other-report” form of the instrument. In Study 2 (n = 398), we replicate the factor structure from Study 1 and demonstrate its construct validity. In Study 3 (n = 356), we show the instrument can also serve as a valid self-report measure.