The concept of 'cultural intelligence' (CQ) has gained prominence in organizational psychology as a complement to traditional measures of cognitive ability. Unlike IQ, which focuses on abstract reasoning, CQ encompasses an individual's capability to function effectively across diverse cultural contexts. Researchers have identified four distinct dimensions: metacognitive CQ (the awareness of cultural assumptions during interactions), cognitive CQ (knowledge of cultural norms and practices), motivational CQ (the drive to adapt), and behavioral CQ (the ability to exhibit appropriate verbal and nonverbal actions). A meta-analysis by Ott and Michailova (2018) found that while motivational CQ strongly predicts expatriate job performance, cognitive CQ alone does not, suggesting that mere knowledge without the willingness to apply it yields limited benefits. Furthermore, high CQ does not automatically reduce prejudice; rather, it requires deliberate practice and reflective learning. This nuanced view challenges simplistic training programs that focus solely on factual cultural information, advocating instead for experiential and mindfulness-based interventions to develop adaptive flexibility.
❓ According to the passage, what is a key limitation of focusing only on cognitive CQ in cross-cultural training?
A. A. It ignores the importance of factual knowledge about cultural norms.
B. B. It fails to improve job performance because knowledge without motivation is insufficient.
C. C. It reduces prejudice automatically but not job performance.
D. D. It is less measurable than other dimensions of cultural intelligence.
✅ 正确答案
B. It fails to improve job performance because knowledge without motivation is insufficient.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first