Blog, Culture, Diversify, and Responsibility
Vietnamese Culture under Hofstede Culture Dimensions
- Power Distance
Vietnam has a high-Power Distance Index (PDI), indicating a strong respect for authority, social hierarchy, and unequal distribution of power. This is reflected in the way people interact with those in positions of authority, such as managers or government officials. For example, Vietnamese employees may show deference to their supervisors and avoid openly disagreeing with them. According to Hofstede Insights, Vietnam has a PDI score of 40, which is higher than the global average of 55.
- Individualism vs. Collectivism
Vietnam is a collectivist society, with a low Individualism Index (IDV) score of 20. People in Vietnam place a high value on family, community, and group harmony, and often prioritize the needs of the group over the individual. This can be seen in the way people work together in teams, and in the importance placed on maintaining social relationships. For example, Vietnamese families may live together in extended households, and adult children may continue to live with their parents even after getting married.
- Masculinity vs. Femininity
Vietnam is a masculine society, with a Masculinity Index (MAS) score of 40. This indicates a strong emphasis on traditional gender roles, competitiveness, and achievement. Vietnamese culture places a high value on education, career success, and financial stability, and there is often pressure to conform to societal expectations around gender roles. For example, men may be expected to be the primary breadwinners in their families, while women may be expected to take on more caregiving responsibilities.
- Uncertainty Avoidance
Vietnam has a moderate level of Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) score of 30, indicating a relatively comfortable relationship with uncertainty and ambiguity. Vietnamese people may be more willing to take risks and try new things than in some other cultures, but they still value stability and predictability. This can be seen in the way that businesses in Vietnam may prefer to work with partners they know well, rather than taking on unknown risks.
- Long-term Orientation
Vietnam has a high Long-term Orientation Index (LTO) score of 68, indicating a strong emphasis on planning for the future, persistence, and perseverance. Vietnamese culture values hard work, education, and planning for the long term, and people may prioritize saving money for the future or investing in their children’s education. This can be seen in the way that many Vietnamese families place a high priority on education, and may invest significant resources in their children’s schooling.
- Indulgence vs. Restraint
Vietnam has a relatively high Indulgence Index (IND) score of 45, indicating a relatively relaxed attitude towards gratification and enjoyment. Vietnamese people may be more open to new experiences and may prioritize pleasure and enjoyment. This can be seen in the way that Vietnamese culture values good food, socializing, and having fun with friends and family.
Overall, Vietnamese culture is characterized by a strong respect for authority and social hierarchy, a collectivist outlook that prioritizes family and community, a strong emphasis on achievement and success, and a focus on long-term planning and perseverance.