Security in an insecure world: An examination of individualism‐collectivism and psychological sense of community at work

Abstract

Purpose

An exploratory empirical examination was conducted to determine if collectivists experienced a higher psychological sense of community at work than individualists.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were obtained from 264 non‐supervisory respondents. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship among individualism‐collectivism and psychological sense of community at work, while controlling for age, gender, marital status, education, and position.

Findings

Results showed that while controlling for demographic and job related variables, collectivists experience higher levels of psychological sense of community at work than individualists.

Research limitations/implications

Because this investigation was a cross‐sectional research design, causality cannot be determined although reverse causality is unlikely due to individualism‐collectivism being a relatively stable individual difference variable.

Practical implications

In the uncertainty of our current economic and labor landscape, collectivists may feel more secure and ride the waves better than individualists. Organizations should work to communicate values that encourage building a sense of community among their employees. Managers should include relationship building with subordinates among their many daily tasks.

Originality/value

The paper examines an under‐researched area by incorporating concepts from the field of community psychology to examine individualism‐collectivism as one predictor of which individuals may better navigate the turbulent nature of the current job landscape.

Citation

Sue Love, M. (2007), "Security in an insecure world: An examination of individualism‐collectivism and psychological sense of community at work", Career Development International, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 304-320. https://doi.org/10.1108/13620430710745917