Question

Pretend you are a social psychological researcher who wants to examine the relationship between cultural orientation (collectivistic vs. individualistic) and helping behavior.

1) Explain the difference between a collectivistic and individualistic orientation

2) What is the most appropriate research method to answer this research question: a correlational study or an experiment? Explain why.

3) Briefly describe how you would conduct the study given the method you chose above.

Answer 1

1. Individuals who have a collectivistic orientation value the needs of the group over the individual. The goals of the group are more important than personal goals. On the other hand, individuals who have an individualistic orientation value the needs over the individual over the group. Values like achievement, industriousness and self esteem are emphasised. The goals of the individual are more important than the goals of the group. Values like cooperation, caring and concern are emphasised.

2. A correlational study is more appropriate. This is because the independent variable (individualistic or collectivistic orientation) cannot be manipulated. It is something that is already present.

3. Two questionnaires can be administered to each participant. One measuring their orientation and one measuring their helping behavior. The correlation between the two will then be calculated.