5.3. I OR THOU?
Much of the research around cultural difference centers on the difference between how individualist and collectivist cultures define and respond to conflict. The hallmarks of these two approaches are outlined below:
| Individualist Cultures | Collectivist Cultures |
|---|---|
| Conflict is outcome-focused | Conflict is process-focused |
| Conflict is dealt with openly and honestly | Face work management done before substantive issue discussion |
| Success comes with tangible outcomes or action plans | Success comes with mutual face saving |
| Goals of individuals addressed | Interpreted in terms of group |
| Achievement is important | Harmony is important |
| Communication is direct | Communication is indirect |
As indicated above, resolving intercultural conflict is made more difficult by ...
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