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The styles of groups differ. Some groups emphasize
independence while others emphasize interdependence. Independent groups are common in
western industrial nations, where values such as freedom and self-determination are highly
prized. Members of these groups describe themselves as possessing traits and abilities,
such as intelligence, friendliness and honour. In contrast, the styles of interdependent
groups is associated with a less analytic, more wholistic view. The inter-relatedness of
concepts is more relevant, and the individual tends to be defined, not in terms of
individual characteristics, but in terms of interconnections and contexts. From this
arises the view that the preservation of harmonious relations with other key people is the
primary goal of the interdependent person. For a person with interdependent values,
maintaining a core of coherent (consistent) patterns of behaviour, such as friendliness,
would be less important. The immediate requirements of each situation and the values of
the people involved in the situation would count more strongly. (summarized from Smith
& Bond, 1993, pp. 95-96). |