Thesis
CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES ON CONSUMER PURCHASING BEHAVIOR IN THE SECONDHAND APPAREL MARKET: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE USA, CHINA, AND BANGLADESH
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
05/2025
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000007319
Abstract
This study investigates cross-cultural differences in consumer purchasing behavior in the secondhand apparel market from a USA, China, and Bangladesh perspective. Based on Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions and the Triple Bottom Line (3P) approach, the study explores the multiple impacts of cultural values, social norms, economic incentives, and sustainability on the choices of consumers. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 45 participants in the three countries, this study uses a qualitative approach to explore significant cultural differences. In the U.S. culture, which is individualist and low uncertainty avoidance, consumers remain driven by personal style, value, and sustainability, with secondhand shopping being seen as trendy and ethically responsible. Unlike collectivist norms and high power distance among China and Bangladesh consumers, attitudinal, and health care practices. In China and Bangladesh, sustainability is broadly recognized but often comes after economic or social considerations. The results demonstrate culture-based motivations and barriers in secondhand consumption and present strategic guidelines for the sustainable apparel market. This comparative study expands the understanding of the global secondhand apparel markets, supports culturally sensitive marketing and policymaking to advance sustainable consumption behavior.
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Details
- Title
- CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES ON CONSUMER PURCHASING BEHAVIOR IN THE SECONDHAND APPAREL MARKET
- Creators
- Md Abu Bakar
- Contributors
- Ting Chi (Co-Chair)Yini Chen (Co-Chair)Sivasankari Gopalakrishnan (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Department of Apparel, Merchandising, Design and Textiles
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 82
- Identifiers
- 99901220470701842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis