Exploring the Factors Affecting the Use of Kiasu Tactics

Abstract

Kiasuism is an excessive form of competitiveness in which an individual tries to get the most out of every interaction. It manifests itself in the form of positive and negative tactics. This study explores the factors affecting the use of kiasu tactics. Maximization, conscientiousness, and perceptions of distributive justice are examined using multiple regression analysis. Maximizers are far more likely to engage in both kiasu positive and kiasu negative tactics than are satisficers. When people perceive that outputs are distributed fairly, they are more likely to engage in kiasu positive tactics. Conscientiousness did not have a significant effect.