Individualism vs Collectivism

When I was young I lived in England. Most secondary schools in England have school uniforms and my school was stricter than most - we even had to wear the same color socks and the same style of shoe. I remember going to the school outfitters with my Mom and Dad and feeling like I was going to die of fashion shock. I refused point-blank to wear the summer dress and matching hat - that was going WAY too far in my opinion. 

I recently checked out my old school online and they still wear uniforms but they are A LOT better than the one I had to wear. Plus the school is now CO-Ed! 

Looking back I can see the benefit of wearing a school uniform. For one it made getting dressed every morning easy. You knew exactly what skirt, shirt, sweater, blazer, socks, and shoes you were going to wear, and if there was any choice it was which grey skirt or which blue sweater it was. Oh and before I forget we also had to wear a tie! My sons never had to worry about just asking their dad for help! Secondly, there was never any problem with wearing outdated, old-fashioned, or unpopular clothes at school - everyone looked the same - which was oddly satisfying. Thirdly, the clothes I did have for outside of school lasted longer. Of course, the negatives were that...We all looked the same.

Although kids at my school dressed the same there were ways for self-expression. Hair played a major role in that. In fact, I remember arriving back at school after a break (I forgot to mention I went to a boarding school) and seeing one of the older girls with pink hair. Unfortunately, that went against school policy and she was sent home until it was a more acceptable color. 

Some cultures are more prone to individualism and some to collectivism. Collectivism is more geared to the needs and welfare of a group. Whereas individualism is more focused on the needs of individuals. These ideas can affect how someone behaves and views other people's behavior. 

There are pros and cons of each culture. Personally, I think a blend of each is good. For example, in a family, we can't just think about ourselves. We have to think about the needs of everyone. If we only think about what makes us happy and not how our choices affect others the family unit wouldn't work. The same goes for a classroom environment. Everyone in the class needs to be respectful of everyone else. You can't play loud music while other students are taking a test. But I don't think it's good when we don't allow people to win or become successful if they want to put in the effort. I have always encouraged my kids to become self-sufficient and independent in their thinking but remind them that their actions reflect back on our family.

I'm glad that I live in a country that allows me to be an individual. However, I am also blessed to be a part of a family where I make choices that benefit each member.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” ©2011-2022 EnjoyingTheChaos. All rights reserved. All text, photographs, artwork, and other content may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the written consent of the author EnjoyingTheChaos.blogspot.com