Is Australia’s tall poppy syndrome the same as the Philippines’ crab mentality?

Career coach Dr Celia Torres-Villanueva unpacks the cultural nuances between two well-known behaviours, Australia’s tall poppy syndrome and the Philippines’ crab mentality, and explains how both impact migrants in the workplace.

Is Australia’s Tall Poppy Syndrome the Same as the Philippines’ Crab Mentality? Credit: Getty Images / Elena Medoks / Gabriel Sperandio

Key Points

• Tall poppy syndrome in Australia punishes success by cutting down high achievers, while crab mentality in the Philippines involves pulling others down out of envy. Though culturally distinct, both discourage ambition and foster negativity.
• A study from ANU shows nearly 50% of professionals in Australia have experienced tall poppy syndrome. Meanwhile, 63% of overseas Filipinos surveyed by SWS reported experiencing envy or sabotage from fellow Pinoys.
• Dr Torres-Villanueva advises building strong support networks and understanding local workplace culture.

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Is Australia’s tall poppy syndrome the same as the Philippines’ crab mentality?

SBS Filipino

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Celia Torres-Villanueva has been named one of the 5 finalists from 77 nominees for the Australian Professionals of Colour (APOC) Corporate Legend Award. Credit: Supplied

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