Validating the Intentional Adaptability Quotient for Uses in Consulting Psychology

• Published in: Consulting psychology journal 2023-06, Vol.75 (2), p.176-195
• Main Authors: Locaso, Penny, Louie, Ai-Mee, Albrecht, Simon L., De Sanctis, Marcele
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adaptability (Personality); Consulting Psychology; Factor Structure; Female; Human; Male; Measurement
• ISSN: 1065-9293; 1939-0149
• DOI: 10.1037/cpb0000250

The ability to adapt at an individual and organizational level is considered essential to thrive in today's business climate and world of work. The concept of adaptability refers to an individual's ability to adjust to change effectively, and it can be presented as both an inherent trait as well as a skill that can be developed. The aim of the current study was to validate the factor structure of the Intentional Adaptability Quotient (IAQ) and to test a model of proposed antecedents and outcomes; 490 individuals completed the 56-item IAQ self-report survey online. Confirmatory factor analysis provided support for a three-factor IAQ model comprising of focus, courage, and curiosity as higher-order factors. The IAQ was found to positively predict change readiness and life satisfaction. This study offers support for the validity of the IAQ as a measure that can be used for research and in leadership and professional-development programs. What's It Mean? Implications for Consulting Psychology The development, factor structure, and validation of a tool to measure individual adaptability are summarized (the Intentional Adaptability Quotient [IAQ]). The use of the tool can be valuable for research as well as for programs that provide coaching and training to develop employees and leaders; consultants and clients can have evidence-based confidence when interpreting scores and assessing change.