Publication Type
Journal Article
Version
acceptedVersion
Publication Date
4-2023
Abstract
“Kiasu,” a Hokkien term, which directly translates as the “fear of losing out” is synonymous with the Singapore identity. Yet, there has been little empirical research investigating this indigenous psychological construct in Singapore. This paper first delves into Singapore’s Kiasu culture and existing research of Kiasu, which diverges on the operationalization and measurement of Kiasu as a psychological construct. While early research conceptualized Kiasu as a behavioral tendency, more recent investigations have begun to construe Kiasu as a mindset. Next, we review Kiasu-related outcomes in four domains: academic performance, learning strategies, well-being, and creativity. Finally, we propose a new theoretical framework integrating current research to guide future research directions. Specifically, the proposed integrated model is composed of Kiasu antecedents, individual Kiasu mindset, Kiasu behaviors, and Kiasu outcomes with moderators of normative Kiasu mindset and incentive system in the context. We believe that this proposed integrated model will help us better understand the prevalent Kiasu mindset and behavior in Singapore. Impact and Implications: The Singapore identity is synonymous with Kiasu a.k.a. the Fear of Losing Out. In this paper, we reviewed existing research on Kiasu and propose a new theoretical framework composed of Kiasu antecedents, individual Kiasu mindset, Kiasu behaviors, and Kiasu outcomes with moderators of normative Kiasu mindset and incentive system in the context to guide future research on this indigenous mindset. Our review can contribute to the continued appreciation of cultural diversity and lifelong learning for the global citizen.
Keywords
Kiasu, Fear of Losing Out (FoLO), Singapore, Integrated Model of Kiasu, Normative Kiasu Mindset
Discipline
Asian Studies | Multicultural Psychology | Psychology
Research Areas
Psychology
Publication
International Perspectives in Psychology: Research, Practice, Consultation
Volume
12
Issue
2
First Page
65
Last Page
74
ISSN
2157-3883
Identifier
10.1027/2157-3891/a000066
Publisher
Hogrefe Publishing
Citation
CHENG, Chi-ying, & WEE, Sheila X. R..(2023). Kiasu (Fear of Losing Out): An indigenous psychological construct in Singapore and its impact. International Perspectives in Psychology: Research, Practice, Consultation, 12(2), 65-74.
Available at: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/soss_research/3764
Copyright Owner and License
Authors
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Additional URL
https://doi.org/10.1027/2157-3891/a000066