H. Colleen Sinclair

Opposite Ends of the Same Stick? Multi-Method Test of the Dimensionality of Individualism and Collectivism

The construct of individualism–collectivism (IND-COL) has become the definitive standard in cross-cultural psychology, management, and related fields. It is also among the most controversial, in particular, with regard to the ambiguity of its dimensionality: Some view IND and COL as the opposites of a single continuum, whereas others argue that the two are independent constructs. We explored the issue through seven different tests using original individual-level data from 50 studies and meta-analytic data from 149 empirical publications yielding a total of 295 sample-level observations that were collected using six established instruments for assessing IND and COL as separate constructs. Results indicated that the dimensionality of IND-COL may depend on (a) the specific instrument used to collect the data, (b) the sample characteristics and the cultural region from which the data were collected, and (c) the level of analysis. We also review inconsistencies, deficiencies, and challenges of conceptualizing IND-COL and provide guidelines for developing and selecting instruments for measuring the construct, and for reporting and meta-analyzing results from this line of research.

Don’t Tell Me Who I Can’t Love A Multimethod Investigation of Social Network and Reactance Effects on Romantic Relationships

In three studies, we examined the influence of social network reactions on feelings toward a romantic partner. Study 1 was a large survey (N = 858), Study 2 was a vignette design in which social network reactions were manipulated, and Study 3 was a laboratory-based, dating game experiment. We found extensive support for the social network effect, whereby relationship approval from family and friends leads individuals to feel more love, more committed, and more positive about a partner. We also examined whether psychological reactance moderated social network influence. Analyses revealed two types of reactance: defiant reactance (doing the opposite of that urged by others) and independent reactance (a desire to make free and independent decisions). Independent reactance but not defiant reactance interacted with network effects and buffered the effects of social adversity. Independent individuals appear capable of ignoring disapproving network opinions. Findings demonstrate a noteworthy interaction between individuals and their social environment.

Social norms versus social motives: the effects of social influence and motivation to control prejudiced reactions on the expression of prejudice

This study examined how individual differences in motivation to control prejudiced reactions (MCPR) affected ones sensitivity to social norms regarding the expression of gay rights attitudes. After measuring their political beliefs and MCPR, pro-gay rights and anti-gay rights participants took part in a discussion where they faced discussion groups that either opposed their position unanimously or nonunanimously (i.e., four opposing confederates vs. three opposing confederates and one undecided confederate). Anti-gay rights individuals showed more conformity overall, especially when high in MCPR. Anti-gay rights individuals also showed norm-consistent attitude change, regardless of MCPR, whereas attitude change among pro-gay rights individuals depended upon their level of MCPR.

Still Connected: Family and Friends in America Since 1970, A Review

IN STILL CONNECTED: FAMILY AND FRIENDS in America since 1970, Dr. Claude Fischer, professor of sociology at the University of California, Berkeley, provides us with a review of the state and transitions of American’s social connections over the past 40 years. Dr. Fischer synthesizes the results of multiple national surveys (e.g., Gallup, Roper, General Social Survey) to counter arguments that our culture, with its increasing “obsession” with social media (e.g., Facebook, iPhones, texting), is becoming a lonely nation. On the contrary, Dr. Fischer highlights how stable and strong Americans are in their social connections with friends and family. The assertion that the Americans are becoming increasingly disconnected from valuable social relationships while plugging in more and more to social media has been a popular topic of discussion. Indeed, a brief search on the Internet of “Internet” and “loneliness” will yield over 9 million results, with the initial hits focusing on questions like “Internet usage causes loneliness?” and “Does Internet use lead to addiction, loneliness, and depression?” Further, it is not difficult to find texts with titles like Alone Together and Bowling Alone that paint the picture of a growing epidemic of loneliness in America. The Internet is not the first to be