Final answer:
True, collectivist cultures prioritize group needs over individual interests, valuing social harmony and interdependence, often observed in East Asian, Latin American, and African countries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a collectivist culture puts the needs of the group before individual interests is true. In such cultures, social harmony and the interdependence of members are highly valued. This is often observed in East Asian countries as well as in some Latin American and African countries, where activities are carried out with the collective well-being in mind. Examples include preparing meals, social gatherings, and group games. In these societies, there is a tendency to provide more nuanced explanations for people's behavior, considering both situational and cultural factors, rather than solely focusing on individual motivations.
Collectivist values contrast with individualist cultures, where independence and personal achievements predominate. Western nations like the United States and Australia are known for prioritizing individual goals over group goals. The motivation in collectivist societies, therefore, often revolves around what is best for the group as a whole, including family and community, rather than just the individual.