The concept was introduced by London Business School professor P. Christopher Earley and Nanyang Business School professor Soon Ang in 2003.
[1][2] While cultural intelligence is comparable to emotional intelligence (EQ), individuals with a high EQ can grasp "what makes us human and, at the same time, what makes each of us different from one another."
In contrast, individuals with a high CQ can discern universal, individual, and non-idiosyncratic features within the behavior of a person or group.
[3] The authors cited cognitive, behavioral, motivational, and metacognitive (higher-level reflection) aspects of cultural intelligence.
[5] Among the four capabilities, motivational CQ, or the interest and enjoyment in cross-cultural interactions, has been identified as a key resource or determinant that enhances personal functioning in cross-cultural environments, leading to improved intercultural adjustment and performance.