A preliminary validation of the Multi-ethnic Acculturation Scale (MAS) for first-generation Asian migrants in Scotland

Acculturation is a complex process involving cognitive, behavioural, and emotional adaptations as people adjust to a new cultural environment. This study evaluated the validity and reliability of the Multi-Ethnic Acculturation Scale (MAS) among first-generation migrants in Scotland. Migrants from 13 Asian countries completed the English-language MAS, which measures acculturation across three domains: cognitive, behavioural, and physical. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the scale’s three-factor structure, demonstrating acceptable model fit and strong internal consistency. Criterion validity was established through significant differences in acculturation scores based on participants’ length of residence in Scotland, with longer stays linked to higher acculturation. These findings support the MAS as a promising tool for assessing acculturation in diverse migrant populations. The study highlights the value of multidimensional measures and suggests future research examine longitudinal changes in acculturation over time.