The present study employed the Concern for Appropriateness Scale (CFA; Lennox & Wolfe. 1984) in comparing protective self-presentation in 159 Australian and 125 Malaysian subjects. Australian subjects scored significantly higher than did Malaysian subjects on total CFA and the two subscales measuring cross-situational sariabilitv of behavior and attention to social comparison information. Malaysian subjects of' Indian descent did not differ significantly from those of Chinese descent on total CFA or either subscale. No significant differences were found on the basis of nationality or ethnicity. The findings are discussed in terms of possible cultural differences that are involved in determining concern for appropriateness and the extent of behavioral adaptation to social situations.
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