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cultual-psychology · 4 months

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Module 6:

As I journey through the fascinating world of cultural psychology, I've begun to uncover the intricate ways in which my culture shapes my health, well-being, and overall worldview. This blog has served as a reflective journal, linking the concepts and knowledge about culture to my own experiences. Through this exploration, I have gained deeper insights into my cultural self and how it influences my daily life.

Understanding Cultural Influences on Physical Health:

One of the most striking revelations from this module is the profound impact of culture on physical health. Despite the universal nature of human physiology, cultural differences significantly shape how illnesses manifest and are treated. For example, in my own culture, there is a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare, and we do regular check-ups. This contrasts with some cultures where medical intervention is sought primarily in emergencies, which is usually due to factors such as a region's availability and access to healthcare. Reflecting on this, I realize how my upbringing instilled a proactive approach to health, also valuing regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Contemporary News and Cultural Perspectives:

As I've previously mentioned, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how cultural practices influence health outcomes. Different countries adopted varied strategies to combat the virus, from strict lockdowns to herd immunity approaches. These decisions were deeply rooted in cultural values, such as individual freedom versus collective responsibility. Observing these differences has made me appreciate the cultural underpinnings of public health policies and how they reflect broader societal values.

Family History and Its Impact:

My family's history has also significantly shaped my thoughts and feelings. My grandfather is of native descent, which has led me to inherit a blend of cultural values from Indigenous practices and my Canadian culture. This duality has influenced my perspectives on health and well-being. For instance, traditional remedies and modern medicine coexist in our household, reflecting a hybrid cultural approach to health.

Beliefs and Values, Direct and Inferred:

Many of my beliefs and values were directly imparted through family discussions, educational settings, and religious teachings. However, some were inferred through personal experiences and societal reactions. For example, my views on mental health have evolved significantly. Growing up, mental health was not necessarily a taboo subject but rarely discussed openly. However, growing up, as the mental health movement began and with the contemporary discourse on mental health, my understanding has been reshaped, making me more empathetic and open to seeking help when needed.

Interaction Patterns and Cultural Conventions:

Cultural and social conventions undoubtedly influence my daily interactions. In professional settings, I adhere to a formal, mature communication style, reflecting the hierarchical nature of my culture. Conversely, in informal settings such as with friends, there's a greater emphasis on collectivism and community, where relationships and social bonds are paramount, leading to a relaxed, friendly environment. These patterns highlight the adaptability required to navigate different cultural contexts seamlessly.

Comfort with Cultural Self:

My position within a multicultural society influences my comfort with my cultural self. Navigating multiple cultural identities can be complex, but it has also given me a unique lens through which to view the world, allowing me to appreciate the richness of cultural diversity.

Health and Well-being, Cultural Values and Practices:

Finally, my health and well-being are deeply intertwined with cultural values and practices. While some cultural norms, like communal eating and family support, positively impact my well-being, others, such as some social stigmas, can be detrimental. Recognizing these influences helps me make conscious choices that align with my well-being while challenging norms that may no longer serve me.

Overall, this journey through cultural psychology is a continuous process of self-discovery and reflection. By understanding how culture shapes health and well-being, I am better equipped to navigate my cultural landscape and appreciate the diverse influences that make me who I am. I plan to continue exploring these themes, linking academic concepts to personal experiences, and gaining a deeper understanding of my cultural self.

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cultual-psychology · 4 months

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Module 5:

This module focused on multiculturalism and cultural perspectives on values and morals, which has already prompted me to reflect deeply on my own cultural framework.

Understanding Acculturation Through Personal Experience:

One of the key concepts is acculturation, the process of adjusting to a new culture. Growing up in a multicultural environment, I've gotten to see firsthand how people navigate between their birth culture and adopted culture. This resonates with my own family history as my grandparents immigrated to this country from Ireland, bringing with them a rich tapestry of traditions and values from their homeland. These traditions have been passed down through generations, subtly influencing my thoughts, behaviours, and values. For instance, family gatherings often involve traditional foods that were mainstream in their country growing up. These experiences have instilled in me a deep appreciation for my heritage, even as I navigate the broader cultural landscape. Reflecting on this, I realize how my identity is a blend of both my ancestral culture and the culture I was born into.

Cultural Influences on Morality and Ethics:

The module also explores how religions and cultural norms shape our understanding of morality. This made me think about the moral values I hold dear and where they originate. Growing up, my moral compass was largely shaped by my family's Catholic religious beliefs, reinforced by community practices and the Catholic schools I attended. These values were not just taught explicitly but also inferred through observing how my family and peers acted in various situations as I was growing up. a recurring theme in my upbringing was the importance of community support and collective well-being. This contrasts with the individualistic values often emphasized in the dominant culture. Understanding these differences helps me appreciate the diversity of moral reasoning and ethical behaviour across cultures.

Reflecting on Contemporary Events:

Still, relatively recent news events have also highlighted the role of culture in shaping human behaviour. The global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, varied significantly across cultures. Some societies emphasized collective responsibility and adherence to public health guidelines, while others strongly prioritized individual freedoms. Reflecting on these differences using my knowledge of cultural psychology helps me understand the underlying cultural values driving these responses, which I find can be quite fascinating.

Personal Interactions and Cultural Conventions:

Cultural conventions also influence my daily interactions. Whether it's the way I communicate with friends at school, the respect I show to elders or the way I celebrate holidays, these behaviours are deeply rooted in my cultural norms. This course encourages me to be more mindful of these patterns and consider how they might be perceived by others from different cultural backgrounds.

Globalization and Cultural Identity:

Living in an increasingly globalized world has exposed me to various cultures, both directly and indirectly. Media, travel, and personal relationships have all contributed to a more nuanced understanding of my own cultural identity.

Health and Wellbeing:

Lastly, my culture's values and practices can have a profound impact on health and well-being. Traditional dietary habits, attitudes toward mental health, and community support systems all play a role in shaping my overall health. Reflecting on these aspects helps me appreciate the positive influences of my culture while also recognizing areas where cultural norms may need to evolve.

This journey through Cultural Psychology is not just an academic exercise but a personal exploration of my cultural self. By reflecting on the concepts and knowledge about culture, I am gaining a deeper understanding of how my cultural experiences shape my identity and interactions with the world. I look forward to continuing this journey and sharing more insights in future blog posts.

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cultual-psychology · 4 months

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Module 4: Cultural Influences on Motivation and Emotion

As I delve into the fascinating world of cultural psychology through our course, I am constantly reminded of how deeply our cultural contexts shape our motivations, emotions, and behaviours.

In this lesson, we explored how fundamental human motivations vary across different cultural contexts, particularly between individualistic and collectivist cultures. Growing up in what I consider a predominantly individualistic society, I have always been encouraged to strive for personal achievements and self-enhancement. This contrasts sharply with collectivist cultures, where the emphasis is on fitting in with the group and maintaining harmony.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I realize that my sense of control and agency has been heavily influenced by my cultural background. For instance, the idea of "pulling oneself up by the bootstraps" is a common narrative in my culture and family, promoting the belief that individuals have significant control over their destiny. However, this perspective can sometimes lead to victim-blaming and reduced support for the public good, as highlighted in the readings by Savani, Stephens, and Markus (2011).

Lesson 4.2 introduced me to the debate on the universality vs. relativity of human emotions, focusing on the James-Lange and Schacter-Singer theories of emotion. I t was eye-opening to learn how cultural meaning systems influence how people appraise situations and experience emotions. For example, the cultural display rules that dictate how emotions should be expressed and perceived add a layer of complexity to understanding emotions across different cultures.

Reflecting on my own cultural experiences, I see how these display rules have shaped my emotional expressions. In my culture, expressing happiness and enthusiasm is often encouraged, while showing sadness or anger is less acceptable. This has undoubtedly influenced my emotional responses and how I perceive others' emotions.

Connecting Cultural Concepts to My Life

Family History and Cultural Influence: My family's history as immigrants has significantly impacted my cultural identity. The traditions and values passed down from my grandparents, who emigrated from a collectivist culture, have influenced my views on family, community, and social responsibility. These cultural roots often clash with the individualistic values prevalent in the society I grew up in, creating a unique blend of cultural influences that shape my thoughts and feelings.

Beliefs and Values: Many of my beliefs and values were directly instilled through family discussions, educational settings, and religious teachings. However, some were inferred through personal experiences and societal reactions. For example, my views on success and achievement were shaped by the societal emphasis on academic and professional accomplishments, while my beliefs about community and support were influenced by my family's collectivist background.

Personality Patterns and Cultural Conventions: My typical patterns of interaction, such as being assertive in professional settings and valuing independence, reflect the individualistic norms of my culture. However, I also notice how I adapt these patterns when interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds, emphasizing harmony and group cohesion in more collectivist contexts.

Through this journey of self-discovery, I am gaining a deeper understanding of how culture shapes my motivations, emotions, and behaviours. By reflecting on the concepts learned in this course, I am better equipped to appreciate the cultural influences that make me who I am and to navigate the complexities of living in a diverse and interconnected world.

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cultual-psychology · 4 months

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Module 3: Cultural Influences on Self and Relationships

In this lesson, we explored how culture influences our self-concept and personality. One of the most intriguing insights was the distinction between individualistic and collectivist cultures. Growing up in a predominantly individualistic society, I have always valued independence and personal achievement. However, learning about collectivist cultures, where interdependence and community are emphasized, made me realize how these cultural values have shaped my sense of self.

Reflecting on my family's history, I see how these values were passed down through generations. My grandparents, who immigrated to this country, often emphasized the importance of hard work and self-reliance. These values were reinforced through family stories and educational settings, shaping my belief in the importance of personal success.

Interpersonal Attraction and Close Relationships: This lesson delved into how culture influences interpersonal attraction and the formation of close relationships. The universal and diverse forces at play in mate selection and friendship formation piqued my interest. In our culture, physical attractiveness and similarity are often seen as key factors in forming relationships. However, understanding that other cultures may prioritize different aspects, such as communal sharing or authority ranking, broadened my perspective. The rise of social media especially has exposed me to different cultural norms and practices, subtly influencing my views on relationships and attractiveness.

Thinking about my personality patterns, I realize how much they are influenced by cultural and social conventions. For example, my tendency to value punctuality and efficiency can be traced back to cultural norms prioritizing time management in my family. These traits are further reinforced through societal expectations and the educational system.

Reflecting on my level of globalization, I acknowledge that my sense of self has been influenced by exposure to other cultures. Whether through media, travel, or interactions with people from diverse backgrounds, these experiences have shaped my worldview and made me more open to different perspectives.

Comfort with Cultural Self: My comfort with my cultural self is also influenced by my social group membership. As a member of a dominant cultural group, I often take for granted the privileges and norms that come with it. However, learning about the experiences of minority groups and immigrants has made me more aware of the challenges they face in navigating their cultural identities.

So far, I've had an eye-opening journey that has helped me understand the profound influence of culture on my identity and experiences. As I continue to learn and reflect, I hope to gain deeper insights into my cultural self and appreciate the rich diversity of human cultures. Stay tuned for more reflections as I continue this journey of self-discovery and cultural understanding!

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cultual-psychology · 4 months

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Module 2: Culture, Development and Cognition

The Lens of Culture: As I embarked on this journey through cultural psychology, I was eager to explore how deeply intertwined my identity is with my cultural background. As we learned in our course, it is not until we travel to other cultures or meet people from different backgrounds that we gain insight into our own practices and routines. This post continues my documenting of my discoveries and insights as I learn about new concepts in cultural psychology and relate them to my own cultural experiences.

Culture in Contemporary News Events: Recently, I learned about the rise of remote work and its impact on work-life balance. This event calls for considering how culture plays a role in shaping our responses to such changes. In some cultures, work is seen as a central part of one's identity, while in others, there is a stronger emphasis on family and leisure time. Reflecting on my own culture, I realize that the value placed on hard work and productivity, as previously mentioned, has significantly influenced my approach to work. This cultural perspective has shaped my thoughts on what constitutes a successful career and how I balance my personal and professional life.

Family History and Cultural Impact: My family's history and European origins have profoundly impacted my thoughts and feelings. The traditions and values passed down from my grandparents, who migrated to this country from Ireland, have instilled in me a strong sense of resilience and determination. These cultural narratives have influenced my beliefs about perseverance and the importance of maintaining cultural heritage. Understanding this connection helps me appreciate the role of cultural transmission in shaping individual identity.

Beliefs and Values: Reflecting on why I hold certain views, I realize that many of my beliefs were directly imparted through family conversations, educational settings, and religious teachings. For instance, my views on marriage and child-rearing were heavily influenced by my family's discussions around the dinner table and the values emphasized in my community. Additionally, experiences during my teenage years, such as challenging my parents' unwritten rules, helped shape my understanding of cultural norms and expectations.

Interaction Patterns and Cultural Conventions: My typical interactions in various settings are undoubtedly influenced by cultural and social conventions. As I mentioned, the way I communicate at work versus at home reflects different cultural expectations. At work, I adhere to a more formal and professional demeanour, while at home, my interactions are more relaxed and informal. These patterns highlight the influence of cultural norms on behaviour and personality.

Globalization and Cultural Identity: Considering how globalized I am, I recognize that exposure to other cultures has significantly influenced my sense of identity. Through media, travel, and interactions with people from diverse backgrounds, I have developed a more nuanced understanding of cultural diversity. Even the experience of moving from Ontario to Nova Scotia has given me firsthand experience of adapting to a different cultural environment, which broadened my perspective and enriched my cultural self-awareness.

Comfort with Cultural Self: My level of comfort with my cultural self is influenced by my grandparents' Indigenous status. As part of the dominant culture while having family members in minority positions has given me a unique vantage point. I feel a sense of pride in my cultural heritage, yet I also navigate the complexities of how people integrate into the broader society. This duality shapes my identity and influences how I perceive and interact with the world.

Health and Wellbeing: Reflecting on how my culture's values and practices affect my health and well-being, I realize that certain cultural norms can have both positive and negative impacts. For instance, the emphasis on communal support within my culture provides a strong network of social connections, enhancing my mental well-being. However, the pressure to conform to certain cultural expectations can sometimes be stressful and challenging. I've found balancing these influences is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Through these reflections, I am beginning to uncover the intricate ways in which culture shapes my identity and experiences. This journey through cultural psychology is not just an academic exercise but a personal exploration of who I am and how I navigate the world. As I continue to learn and reflect, I look forward to deepening my understanding of the cultural forces that influence my life and the lives of those around me.

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cultual-psychology · 4 months

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Module 1: Introduction to the Theories and Methods of Cultural

Sources of Beliefs and Values: I often ponder why it is I hold certain views and where they originate from. Many of my core beliefs have been shaped by direct teachings from family and educational settings. For example, the importance of education and hard work has always been a recurring theme in my family's discussions. However, some beliefs have been formed through personal experiences and societal reactions. As a teenager, like many, pushing against my parents' rules or asking taught me about the boundaries of cultural expectations, for some topics like marriage and career choices can be large life decisions that kids will seek to push back on. These experiences highlight the interplay between direct teachings and our inferred beliefs.

Personality Patterns and Cultural Influence: My interaction patterns in various settings can reveal much about cultural and social conventions in my life. In professional working environments, I tend to be assertive and goal-oriented, reflecting the competitive nature of the culture I was raised. In contrast, in social gatherings, I tend to adopt a more relaxed and communal approach. These contrasting behaviours illustrate the flexibility required to navigate different cultural contexts. Recognizing this helps me understand how cultural norms shape my personality and interactions, as we've learned in our course.

Globalization and Cultural Identity: Exposure to other cultures, both directly and indirectly, has significantly influenced my sense of self. My travel experiences and interactions with people from diverse backgrounds have deeply broadened my perspective. Media can also play a crucial role in shaping globalized identity as it provides me insight into various other cultures. Furthermore, watching international films and consuming global news has made me more aware of cultural differences and similarities and made me want to learn more. This awareness can foster a more inclusive and empathetic worldview.

This blog is a testament to the ongoing journey of understanding my cultural self. By reflecting on contemporary events, family history, belief systems, personality patterns, globalization, comfort with cultural identity, and health, I gain deeper insights into the profound influence of culture on my life. As I continue this course, I look forward to uncovering more layers of my cultural identity and sharing these reflections with you all!

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