Validity of the Cognitive Style Index: Replication and extension

Allinson and Hayes (1996) in the reporting of a new measure, the Cognitive Style Index, made a plea for replication and extension of their work. Using a sample of over one thousand subjects the present study investigated the CSI's construct and con current validity. A maximum Likelihood factor analy sis obtained broadly similar results to those of Allinson and Hayes. No rel ationship was observed between the CSI and an alternative measure of style (the Cognitive Styles Analysis). It is argued that cognitive Style Is indep endent of gender but that style is related to job level (tower scores were associated nifh increased seniority). Some evidence was presented which sug gests there may be differences in cognitive style between Hong Kong and UK small business owner managers.