Comparative of Mental status in individualistic/collectivistic students in Ferdowsi University of Mashhad

Regarding to the “person–environment fit”, although, having a personality which matches the values of the overarching culture should increase subjective wellbeing, a mismatch will decrease it. This study compared the mental status in individualistic and collectivistic students in Iranian culture. Used method in this study was descriptive and comparative. Among all undergraduate students at the Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in 91 - 92 school year, the number of 150 students were selectedbased onquota sampling and according to school and were evaluated with using Auckland Individualism and Collectivism Scale (AICS) and SCL_ 90 Questionnaire. Results of multivariate analysis of variance showed that the two groups in terms of their overall performance in SCL_ 90 Questionnaire have significant difference. Also, results of Tests of Between-Subjects Effects showed that between two groups, there is a significant difference in Interpersonal sensitivity, Hostility and Paranoid ideation; such thatindividualistic students hadhigher scoresonthethree subscales. The results in this study confirmed the“person–environment fit”.The Iranian culture that is recognized as one of collectivist cultures, Individualist studentshad more psychological problems; Whereas, collectivist Studentshad a better mental state.