Cross-cultural differences in the expression of personality traits

This article explores cross-cultural differences in the expression of personality traits, emphasizing the interplay between universal psychological models (e.g., the Big Five) and cultural context. Drawing on theories from Asmolov, Leontiev, and Hofstede, the study highlights how cultural norms shape the manifestation, interpretation, and social valuation of traits like extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Key findings include: collectivist cultures (e.g., Asia) prioritize agreeableness and conformity, while individualistic societies (e.g., Western Europe) favor extraversion and openness; cultural modulators such as self-concept, emotional regulation, and motivational frameworks significantly influence trait expression; methodological challenges (e.g., measurement equivalence, social desirability bias) underscore the need for culturally adapted research tools. The article underscores the universality of core personality traits while advocating for culturally nuanced approaches in psychology, intercultural communication, and global management.

Keywords : cross-cultural psychology, personality traits, Big Five model, individualism, collectivism, cultural modulators, emotional regulation, self-concept, intercultural communication.

The study of cross-cultural differences in the expression of personality traits is one of the most relevant issues in modern personality psychology. As A. G. Asmolov notes, personality is formed through the interaction of the individual with the cultural environment, which not only establishes a system of meanings and values but also provides specific «cultural lenses» through which a person perceives himself and the surrounding world [1]. This position becomes particularly significant in the context of globalization, where intercultural contacts become a daily reality.

D. A. Leontiev emphasizes that cultural differences manifest not so much in the presence or absence of certain personality traits but in their semantic load and social acceptability [2]. For example, universal characteristics such as extraversion or conscientiousness may hold different value meanings and modes of expression depending on the cultural context. In collectivist cultures, where values of group harmony and interdependence prevail, the expression of individual traits often conforms to norms of social approval, whereas in individualistic societies, the emphasis shifts to self-realization and independence.

Researching personality traits in a cross-cultural context is one of the key areas of modern personality psychology. The universality of models such as the «Big Five» has been confirmed in numerous studies; however, their manifestation, intensity, and social significance vary depending on cultural norms, values, and social structures.

According to the five-factor model [3], personality traits include neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. However, cross-cultural studies [7; 8] show that:

– In collectivist cultures (e.g., in Asian countries), agreeableness and conformity are valued more highly, while in individualistic cultures (the USA, Western Europe), extraversion and openness are prioritized.

– Neuroticism is more frequently correlated with anxiety in cultures with a high level of uncertainty avoidance (Germany, Japan), while its influence is less pronounced in societies that are more tolerant of uncertainty (Scandinavia) [6].

– Conscientiousness is more strongly associated with professional success in cultures with high power distance (China, Latin America), where hierarchy and discipline are important [7].

Cultural Modulators of Personality Expressions

In individualistic cultures, personality is perceived as independent, and self-identification is based on personal achievements [4]. In collectivist cultures, the self-concept is interconnected with group belonging, which influences the expression of agreeableness and conformity.

2. Emotional Regulation

Cultures differ in the acceptability of emotional expression. For instance, in Eastern cultures (Japan, China), there is a greater control over negative emotions, which reduces external manifestations of neuroticism.

3. Motivational Differences

In Western societies, achievement motivation is associated with extraversion and openness, whereas in collectivist cultures, it is linked to a striving for harmony and group success [8].

Methodological Issues in Research

• Measurement Equivalence: Questionnaires developed in the West may not account for culturally specific constructs.

• Social Desirability: In collectivist cultures, there is a higher tendency to provide socially approved responses.

Cross-cultural studies confirm the universality of basic personality traits but emphasize their cultural conditioning. Understanding these differences is crucial for intercultural communication, clinical psychology, and global management.

References:

1. Asmolov, A. G. Psychology of personality: cultural and historical understanding of human development / A. G. Asmolov. — 3rd ed., ispr. and add. — M.: Sense: Publishing center «Academy», 2007. — 528 p. https://kurl.ru/TlIGI
2. Leontiev, D. A. Psychology of meaning: the nature, structure and dynamics of semantic reality / D. A. Leontiev. — 2nd ed., ispr. — M.: Sense, 2003. — 487 p. https://kurl.ru/miFBR
3. McCray, R. R. The five-factor theory of personality / R. R. McCray, P. T. Costa; translated from English // Foreign psychology. — 1993. — No. 2. — pp. 24–36. — Trans. ed.: McCrae, R. R., & Costa, P. T. (1997). https://www.researchgate.net/publication/284978581_A_five-factor_theory_of_personality
4. Markus, H. R., & Kitayama, S. (1991). Culture and the self: Implications for cognition, emotion, and motivation. Psychological Review, 98 (2), 224–253. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033–295X.98.2.224
5. Petrovsky, A. V. Personality. Activity. Collective / A. V. Petrovsky. — M.: Politizdat, 1982. 255 p. https://studfile.net/preview/9083798/
6. Gallyamova A., Grigoryev D. 2022. RUDN Journal of Psychology and Pedagogics, 19(3), 429–447 https://elibrary.ru/download/elibrary_49604236_57391946.pdf
7. Hofstede, G. Consequences of culture: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions and organizations across nations / G. Hofstede; translated from English — M.: Alpina Publisher, 2020. — 568 p. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/248393979_Geert_Hofstede_Culture's_Consequences_Comparing_Values_Behaviours_Institutions_and_Organizations_Across_Nations
8. Schwartz, S. H. (1992). Universals in the content and structure of values: Theoretical advances and empirical tests in 20 countries. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 25, 1–65. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230557790_Universals_in_the_Content_and_Structure_of_Values_Theoretical_Advances_and_Empirical_Tests_in_20_Countries