Measuring collectivism and individualism in the third millennium

Abstract

The aim in this study was to validate the Auckland Individualism-Collectivism Scale (AICS) across populations from 5 different countries and identify better ways to interpret the scores. Data were collected from New Zealand, Portugal, China, Italy, and Romania. The results indicate that the AICS is not only valid but also highly reliable (alpha > .70). Cluster analysis identified 4 clusters: low collectivism high individualism; high collectivism midlevel individualism; high collectivism high individualism; and low collectivism low individualism. Each group included individuals from all 4 clusters. The advantages of the AICS, the use of cluster analysis in cross-cultural measures, and the importance of these measures within the psychoeducational context are discussed.