This paper explores the presence of "groupism" in Japan; that is, the phenomenon that youth in Japan are seen in groups and very seldom alone. The text focuses on "groupism" and what that means for schooling practices in both Japan and the United States. Cultural comparisons between the two countries examine the typical classrooms, social control of the group, and cultural beliefs that stress the stability of the group as contrasted to the development of individuality of students. (EH)