Individualism and Interdependence: Tapping into the Third Self-Construal

Abstract

Traditionally, when it comes to describing an individual’s self-construal much of the focus is on its interdependent and independent aspects or dimensions. Individuals with a more independent self-construal are generally more focused on their own goals and driven by their needs and are usually autonomous from other individuals. Individuals with a more interdependt self-construal tend to be more group focused and understand and play their role in group settings. Although these dimensions of the self-construal have been very well established many have suspected that an individual’s self-construal may not be as unidimensional as previously believed. This study finds evidence to support that an individual’s self-construal is multidimensional containing both collectivistic and individualistic tendencies varying in strength and influence.