From Cognitive Shortcut to Perceived Competence: A Moderated Mediation Model of Cultural Frameworks, Stereotyping, and Social Adjustment

Abstract

Dimensional cultural models are widely used in education and training to simplify intercultural complexities, yet critics argue they may foster cognitive biases. Previous research revealed a paradox: managers' belief in these models correlates positively with both their stereotyping tendency and their self-reported socio-cultural adjustment. This study unpacks this paradox by testing a moderated mediation model. We examine whether stereotyping tendency mediates the relationship between belief in dimensional models and socio-cultural adjustment, and if this indirect effect is moderated by an individual's Need for Cognitive Closure (NFC). Cross-sectional survey data from 412 European-based managers with international responsibilities were analyzed using Hayes' PROCESS macro. Results supported the model. Stereotyping tendency mediated the positive link between belief in the models and adjustment. Crucially, this indirect effect was conditional on NFC, proving significantly stronger for managers with a higher need for closure. These findings specify a cognitive pathway for an "illusion of competence," where simplistic cultural frameworks boost perceived social ease by facilitating stereotyping, particularly among individuals averse to ambiguity. The study highlights the need for educational and training interventions that prioritize cognitive flexibility and critical reflexivity over heuristic categorization in developing genuine intercultural competence.