How “kiasu” Culture Impacts Singaporeans’ Mental Well-being

Singapore's "kiasu" culture, a Hokkien term meaning "fear of losing out," is deeply embedded in the nation's social fabric. This mindset drives individuals to avoid missing opportunities, often leading to competitive and self-preserving behaviours. While such traits have propelled Singapore's rapid development, they also have significant implications for the mental well-being of its citizens.

Understanding the origins of "kiasu" culture

The "kiasu" mentality has roots in Singapore's historical context, particularly its transition from a developing nation to a global economic hub. This rapid development fostered a competitive environment where resources and opportunities were highly sought after, embedding a fear of losing out within the societal psyche. This cultural trait encompasses behaviours aimed at securing advantages and preventing disadvantages in various aspects of life, including education, career, and social status (The Psych Practice, n.d.).

Impact on mental well-being

The pervasive "kiasu" mindset can adversely affect mental health. Studies have shown a negative association between the fear of losing out (FoLO) and self-esteem among Singaporeans, mediated by a higher tendency towards conformity. This suggests that individuals with a strong "kiasu" mentality may experience lower self-esteem due to increased pressure to conform to societal expectations (Bedford & Chua, 2017).

In academic settings, the "kiasu" mindset has been linked to performance-oriented goals and surface learning strategies. Students with a strong "kiasu" mentality tend to focus on outperforming peers rather than mastering the subject matter, leading to increased stress and reduced intrinsic motivation (Wee, 2020).

Furthermore, the emphasis on not missing out can lead to overcommitment and burnout. Individuals may take on multiple responsibilities or engage in numerous activities to avoid being perceived as less successful, resulting in chronic stress and anxiety (Cheng & Wee, 2021).

Coping mechanisms and societal shifts

Addressing the mental health implications of "kiasu" culture requires both individual and collective efforts. On a personal level, developing self-awareness about the detrimental effects of excessive competitiveness is key. Incorporating mindfulness practices, prioritising self-care and seeking support from mental health professionals can empower individuals to manage stress effectively and adopt healthier, more balanced mindsets (Bedford & Chua, 2017).

At the societal level, fostering a culture that values holistic well-being over mere achievement is essential. Educational institutions and workplaces have a pivotal role in cultivating environments that promote collaboration, intrinsic motivation, and personal growth. By implementing policies that prioritise mental health, such as offering accessible counselling services in Singapore and promoting work-life balance, can mitigate the negative effects of "kiasu" culture.

Looking forward

While the "kiasu" mentality has undoubtedly played a role in Singapore's success, it is imperative to acknowledge and address its impact on mental well-being. Embracing a more balanced approach that values personal fulfilment and mental health can enable Singaporeans to sustain their drive of excellence without compromising their overall well-being. The younger generation, in particular, is becoming more vocal about the importance of mental health, pushing for a shift in the way success is defined. This has led to a growing emphasis on work-life balance, mental wellness initiatives, and alternative educational approaches that focus on creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking rather than purely academic excellence. As these values gain traction, they hold the potential to reshape the future of Singapore's "kiasu" culture, encouraging a healthier and more sustainable path toward personal and societal success.

References

Bedford, O., & Chua, S. (2017). Everything also I want: An exploratory study of Singaporean Kiasuism (fear of losing out). Culture & Psychology, 23(3), 371-386.https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1354067X17693831

Cheng, C.-Y., & Wee, S. X. R. (2021). Kiasu (Fear of Losing Out): An Indigenous Psychological Construct in Singapore and Its Impact. Asian Journal of Social Psychology. https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5022&context=soss_research

The Psych Practice. (n.d.). The Deep Roots of Kiasu: Unraveling the Historical Forces Shaping Singapore's Fear of Losing Out. Retrieved from https://thepsychpractice.com/plog/thedeeprootsofkiasu

Wee, S. X. R. (2020). The impact of Kiasu mindset on students' achievement goal orientation and learning strategy. Singapore Management University. https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1377&context=etd_coll