Horizontal and Vertical Dimensions of Individualism and Collectivism: A Theoretical and Measurement Refinement

Abstract

In developing a new scale, this article makes theoretical and measurement distinctions between vertical and horizontal individualism and collectivism. Vertical collectivism includes perceiving the selfas a part (or an aspect) of a collective and accepting inequalities within the collective. Horizontal collectivism includes perceiving the self as a part of the collective, but seeing all members of the collective as the same; thus equality is stressed. Vertical individualism includes the conception of an autonomous individual and acceptance of inequality. Horizontal individualism includes the conception of an autonomous individual and emphasis on equality. Measurement of these constructs is preferable theoretically and empirically (better internal consistency) to either of the more general constructs of individualism and collectivism or the constituent elements of these constructs, such as self-reliance, hedonism, family integrity, and so on. The usefulness of these theoretical distinctions is demonstrated and their implications are discussed.

A diathesis-stress model of engagement in risky behaviors in Chinese adolescents

“…In contrast to individuals in Western cultures who typically endorse individualistic coping strategies, Chinese individuals have historically relied on collectivistic coping strategies (Singelis, Triandis, Bhawuk, & Gelfand, 1995;Yeh, Arora, & Wu, 2006). The use of such strategies is consistent with the importance of interconnectedness within Chinese culture and the central role the extended family plays in the individual's life.…”

Scope insensitivity in helping decisions: Is it a matter of culture and values?

“…Singelis et al 1995;Triandis & Gelfand, 1998). Specifically, we found that horizontal collectivism, representing the extent to which individuals emphasize interdependence, but not their tendency to submit to authority, increases donations to groups.…”

“…Singelis, Triandis, Bhawuk, & Gelfand, 1995;Triandis & Gelfand, 1998). According to this line of research, besides the distinction between individualism and collectivism, the distinction between horizontal and vertical culture-orientations plays a crucial role in determining culture differences.…”

Postmodernist Identity Construction and Consumption

“…The INDCOL questionnaire [Singelis et al, 1995] was used to determine the cultural values of students in four dimensions; namely, vertical individualism-collectivism, and, horizontal individualism-collectivism. The validity of the questionnaire in Turkish was confirmed by Wasti and Erdil [2007] and replicated by Karababa [2010].…”

“…The INDCOL questionnaire [Singelis et al, 1995] measuring cultural values and "Social Appearance Anxiety" scale developed by [Hart, 2008] were used in the study.…”