A CLOSER LOOK ON THE MASCULINITY/FEMININITY DIMENSION OF THE JAVANESE AND CHINESE INDONESIAN FEMALE MANAGERS

Abstract

In Hofstede‟s cultural values framework, Indonesia was described as a country with high power distance level, collectivist, low uncertainty avoidance and tendency toward femininity. Nevertheless, there is a possibility that the actual cultural conditions of the country is not as simple as what it seems. As the fourth largest country in the world incorporating 31 major ethnic groups, Indonesia‟s vast cultural diversity could cause some variations on the culture-related phenomenon among its ethnic groups. The aim of this study is to conduct a closer investigation specific to Hofstede‟s cultural values dimension of masculinity/femininity in Indonesia. This dimension was chosen based on the rationale that it can be used to distinguish whether a society give more emphasis toward earnings, recognition, advancement and challenge; or, more emphasis toward harmony. To achieve this aim, 40 respondents from two Indonesian ethnicities, namely Javanese and Chinese Indonesian female managers were compared in this study. Quantitative analyses were conducted using Hofstede‟s Value Survey Module formula, while pattern matching technique was employed to analyze the qualitative data obtained from the semistructured interview. The analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data revealed significant differences in terms of the masculinity/femininity cultural value in the two diverse subcultures. This finding suggests that variations in Indonesia‟s culture should be acknowledged and be given attention since it can be used to explain culture-related phenomenon in the workplace. Implications for theory and practice were also discussed.