Collectivistic and individualistic values : their effects on group dynamics and productivity in China
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Group Decision and Negotiation
Publication Date
5-1-2003
Volume
12
Issue
3
First Page
243
Last Page
263
Keywords
Collectivistic, Competition, Cooperation, Individualistic
Abstract
Collectivistic and individualistic values are theorized to have far reaching effects on teamwork and organizations. This study proposes that cooperative and competitive goal interdependence mediates the relationship between these values and group interaction and outcomes. Working in State Owned Enterprises in three regions of China, 689 employees in 194 teams indicated their group's values, goal interdependence, constructive controversy, and productivity. Their managers also reported on the extent these teams were productive. Structural equation analysis suggested that collectivistic values may reinforce cooperative goals and an open-minded discussion of views which in turn results in strong relationships and team productivity, as experienced from both the team's and manager's perspectives. Individualistic values, especially the horizontal version, can have contrasting effects through fostering competitive goals and closed-minded discussion. These results, coupled with previous research, suggest that collectivist values, cooperative goals, and constructive controversy provide an important foundation for productive teamwork.
DOI
10.1023/A:1023383200180
Print ISSN
09262644
E-ISSN
15729907
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2003 Kluwer Academic Publishers
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Tjosvold, D., Law, K. S., & Sun, H. (2003). Collectivistic and individualistic values: Their effects on group dynamics and productivity in China. Group Decision and Negotiation, 12(3), 243-263. doi: 10.1023/A:1023383200180