The cross-cultural appropriateness of the Mirels and Garrett (1971) Protestant Work Ethic (PWE) scale was assessed by comparing the factor structures of Anglo American, Chicano, and Mexican samples. The model derived from the Anglo American sample was not statistically acceptable in its entirely for either the Chicano or the Mexican samples. However, examination of specific discrepancies showed considerable similarity across the samples on several factors, namely honor, success, and effort. The factor structure of the Mexican sample was more similar to the Anglo American sample than that of the Chicano sample. Contrary to predictions based on acculturation theory, comparisons using the full scale indicated PWE endorsement in the following order: Mexicans, Chicanos, and Anglo Americans. The findings are discussed in terms of cultural differences in orientation towards work and leisure.
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