What is guanxi? a review of definitions.

• Main Author: Phang, Xiao Feng.
• Other Authors: School of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2012
• Subjects: DRNTU::Social sciences::Psychology
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/49085
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This article aims to address the shortfall in current guanxi literature on its lack of a single primary interpretation. Guanxi (关系) has become a term that is synonymous in understanding Chinese social behavior, yet there is a corresponding lack of research in the psychology discipline. Through examining existing interpretations and definitions of guanxi, recurrent themes were identified from prominent definitions, and then reassembled into a final working interpretation. The recurring themes identified were (a) interpersonal connections, (b) multi-leveled, (c) lack of equivalence in western concepts, and (d) guanxi involves other indigenous Chinese constructs. Evidences of recurrence were presented. Future directions and recommendations in guanxi research were discussed.