Markus and Kitayama's Independent and Interdependent Self-Concepts

Markus and Kitayama's concepts describe two ways people view themselves. An independent self-focus emphasizes personal traits, independence, and uniqueness—people see themselves as distinct individuals. An interdependent self-focus highlights relationships and social roles—people see themselves as connected to others and influenced by social context. Western cultures tend to value independence, while many Eastern cultures emphasize interdependence. These perspectives shape behavior, communication, and identity, influencing how individuals interpret their experiences and relate to those around them.