Validation of the Arabic California Brief Multicultural Competence Scale Among Counsellors and Its Association With Professional Identity and Demographics

ABSTRACT Background and Aims University students, in their future professional practice, are anticipated to demonstrate robust professional identity (PI) and multicultural competence (MC). The purpose of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the California Brief Multicultural Competence Scale (CBMCS) in the Arabic language. Moreover, it explored the effect of PI and several demographic factors on MC among counselling candidates. Methods The researchers selected two public universities in Amman, Jordan, to recruit participants using an online Google Form between the period of 26 August and 5 September 2025. Accordingly, 223 counselling candidates were recruited. The researchers translated and back‐translated CBMCS and then conducted both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses for the validation process. Results The results highlighted that the translated CBMCS into Arabic is valid and reliable. Results showed that MC and PI are at higher levels among counselling candidates. Conclusions PI has a direct effect on MC among counselling candidates. The researchers recommend psychological training programmes for all university students to promote PI and MC.