The relationship between materialism, level of individualism and collectivism and life satisfaction : a study of Thai undergraduates in international programs

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between materialism, collectivism and individualism in relation to level of life satisfaction among international university students in Thailand. In doing so, data from 92 participants (out of 157) were used. The following measurements were employed: Individualism and Collectivism Scale (INDCOL), Materialism Values Scale (MVS), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) via SPSS program. The following hypotheses were investigated: 1) materialism has a negative correlation to life satisfaction; 2) individualism has a positive correlation to life satisfaction; 3) collectivism has a negative correlation to life satisfaction; and lastly 4) materialism, individualism and collectivism, together, will predict life satisfaction. The findings indicated no significant correlations or predictors as hypothesized. However, additional analyses were conducted to examine possible rationales for the insignificant results. In doing so, some interesting patterns of significant findings were identified. Further details can be referred to in the result and discussion section of this paper.