Abstract:
Cultural intelligence (CQ) is a valuable set of skills for individuals during cross-cultural interactions. Based on the premise that CQ is a set of malleable capabilities that can be developed and improved through international experience (IE), we review existing research in regards to this relationship. A careful analysis of the relationship between IE and CQ reveals inconclusive and contradictory findings within the extant literature. We argue that this is mainly because the studies lack a theoretical foundation to explain the link between these two constructs. We suggest that Social Learning Theory (SLT) is a powerful tool that can explain how and why IE can lead to the development of CQ. SLT views learning as being affected by both observation and experience, and includes four fundamental elements: attention, retention, participative reproduction and motivation. We propose a SLT framework complemented by a set of testable propositions to explain the link between IE and CQ development. We suggest how further research can advance its understanding and outline the practical implications of such examinations.