Vancouver Index of Acculturation – VIA
A 20-item bidimensional instrument measuring acculturation by assessing both heritage and mainstream cultural orientations.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Vancouver Index of Acculturation – VIA was developed by Ryder, A. G., Alden, L., & Paulhus, D. L. (2000). It is designed to measure Acculturation. The scale is intended for use with Immigrants and cultural minorities.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 20 items organized into 2 factors/subscales: Heritage Subscale, Mainstream Subscale.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Subscale | 1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19 | 10 |
| Mainstream Subscale | 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20 | 10 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Disagree, 2 = 2, 3 = 3, 4 = 4, 5 = Neutral, 6 = 6, 7 = 7, 8 = 8, 9 = Agree.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 1 to 9. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Orientation: 1 – 3
- Moderate Orientation: 4 – 6
- High Orientation: 7 – 9
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Heritage subscale alpha = .79, Mainstream subscale alpha = .75.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.