Toward a Cross-Cultural Theoretical Framework of Organization-Public Relations and Boundaries

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to articulate a cross-cultural theoretical framework of organization-public relations and boundaries by exploring relationships between cultural factors and boundary issues. Organizational relations and boundaries in general, and the porosity and permeability of boundaries in particular are examined. A multidisciplinary approach is adopted. Both perspectives of structural sociology and economic rationality involving organizational networks serve as theoretical foundations. In addition, the perspective of cross-cultural psychology is adopted with emphasis on individualistic and collectivistic cultural syndromes. The following four aspects concerning organizational boundaries are explored cross-culturally: 1) self, identity, and role in the organizational setting, 2) psychological boundary porosity between self and organization, 3) boundary (relation) ties and porosity between an organization and its stakeholders, and 4) norms of boundary relationships and reciprocity.