Kiasuism : a pioneer study

Abstract

Kiasuism is a much talked-about topic in Singapore. It's manifestation permeates many aspect of daily life. The media has brought to light the horrors of the situation and captured the attention of the authorities.

This study serves to assess the situation at hand and the possible repercussions on society. This is a survey-based project inwhich opinions are sought from undergraduates from both The University of Queensland in Australia and the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

The study consisted of two phases. A pilot study yielded the consolidated opinion that

kiasuism can be most aptly described as the fear of losing out, kiasi-ism, greed, selfishness and

calculativeness. Based on these results, a phase two questionnaire was subsequently drawn up. This

follow-upsurvey seeks to determine whether Singaporeans are kiasu, whether the syndrome is

exhibited by non-Singaporeans, and whether kiasuism affects a person’s well-being. Other concerns

addressed include the effect of kiasuism on performance and student’s satisfaction with their academic grades.

Results indicated that Singaporeans perceive themselves to be kiasu. In comparison with data from Australia, it is found that kiasuism is not solely a Singaporean trait, and perhaps, such behaviour is equaliy likely to be exhibited by people around the world.

No linear relationship was found to exist between kiasuism and stress (womoutness and uptightness) and academic performance. However, there is significant evidence to indicate that a negative, linear relationship exists between kiasu tendency and satisfaction.

Smce the behavioural aspects of kiasuism is obviously evident in Australia, the major concern for the authorities, would be the effect that the excessive attention generated on the topic has, on the country's image abroad, as the concept of kiasuism is not unique to Singapore alone.