Preference for group work in China and the US

What is it about?

The goals of this paper are to determine whether Chinese and U.S. students differ in preference for group work (PGW) and whether the factors contributing to PGW differ in the two countries. The sample included 412 Chinese and 423 U.S college students who completed a survey measuring cultural values (individualism and collectivism) and motives. Although U.S. men exceeded U.S. women in PGW, no gender difference occurred in China. In China, but not in the U.S., PGW was greatest for those with the highest others focus (concern for what others think) and need for achievement. In the U.S., but not in China, PGW was highest in for those persons with the greatest aspirations to be top managers.

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Why is it important?

Managers should pay attention to how cultural values and motives of group members vary. Business education should offer more opportunities to increase exposure to cultural differences, including experience working in culturally diverse groups.