Communal Versus Individualistic Construction of Sense of Mastery in Facing Life Challenges

Abstract

We examined the concept of communal mastery, defined as the belief that one is capable of successful goal attainment by virtue of being closely interconnected with others. This was contrasted to definitions of personal agency (e.g., self-mastery and self-efficacy), defined as the generalized tendency to view the self as responsible and capable of successful goal attainment through independent action. Communal mastery is viewed as more socially interwoven, but having greater individual costs than personal agency. In a series of four studies using North American samples we hypothesized that communal mastery would be more closely related to prosocial coping, cautious action, concern over others' evaluation, and use of social support. Personal agency was hypothesized to be more closely related to asocial and even antisocial coping, decisiveness, and optimistic expectancies, and lower psychological and physical distress. Both communal mastery and personal agency were expected to lead to active coping and well-being. Findings generally supported the communal versus individualistic distinction, but neither construct was associated with antisocial coping.