Validation of Arabic Version of Runco Ideational Behavior Scale

This empirical investigation examined the cross-cultural usefulness of a measure of creative potential, namely the short form of the Runco Ideational Behavior Scale (RIBS). The RIBS has been used in a number of investigations and existing data show it to be a reliable criterion measure, usually with a two-factor structure. Scores from the RIBS have been correlated with tests of divergent thinking but the RIBS is much easier to administer. Both divergent thinking and the RIBS do focus on ideation. Data collected from college students whose native language was Arabic (N= 383) completed the 25-item, short, version of the RIBS. We tested the factor structure with exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses and discriminant validity evidence with Raven Standard Progressive Matrice. We found a stronger support for the two-factor solution than a one-factor solution. Reliability evidence was also strong in the present sample. The first factor (“specific ideation”) had weak correlation with Raven Standard Progressive Matrices test whereas the second factor (“broad ideation”) was not significantly related. The results are discussed in terms of the relevant literature.