Well...I think American individualism can also go the other way. I would have no problem moving to the front of the line if needed. My husband, however, would miss the flight if I were not doing the "uncomfortable" part of confrontation, which I think Americans generally are comfortable with. So, I don't know that this woman is necessarily the best example. Standing in a line, helpless, is much more eastern than american, or even western, for that matter; and is probably more of matter of individual personality than a cultural statement.