How Lack of Cultural Identity Affects the Youth in the Modern World

The Modern World has introduced new experiences, traditions, and cultures, which are essential for the youth to explore. However, with all these influences, the youth are losing touch with their roots, leading to a lack of cultural identity. Cultural identity encompasses a wide range of values, beliefs, and traditions that define an individual’s behavior or way of life. In this article, we will examine how lack of cultural identity affects the youth in the Modern World.

To begin with, cultural identity plays a significant role in shaping one’s self-image. When the youth lack a sense of belonging to their cultural heritage, they may feel lost and confused about who they are. In this case, they may resort to other individuals or external factors to help identify themselves. This could cause a dependency on others to identify themselves, leading to a lack of individualism. Also, this dependency may lead to self-doubt and insecurity in the youth.

Secondly, cultural identity is crucial in determining an individual’s values and beliefs. It is through one’s cultural heritage that one acquires values and beliefs that guide them in their daily activities. When the youth lack an understanding of their cultural heritage, they may misinterpret values and beliefs that are critical to their upbringing. This misinterpretation could lead to cultural conflicts and a lack of respect for diversity.

Thirdly, lack of cultural identity could lead to a crisis of communication. It is through sharing cultural experiences that we understand and appreciate diversity. When the youth lack an understanding of their cultural heritage, they may find it difficult to communicate with individuals from different backgrounds. This creates a communication barrier that poses a challenge to developing interpersonal skills, which are important in bringing people together.

Fourthly, lack of cultural identity could lead to cultural displacement. The Modern World is rapidly changing, and cultural heritage is slowly being replaced by new experiences that may not align with one’s cultural background. When the youth lack an attachment to their cultural heritage, they may quickly adapt to these new experiences, leading to a lack of cultural uniqueness. This could cause cultural dissonance, leading to a feeling of being lost, which could ultimately lead to mental health issues.

In conclusion, it is important to note that cultural identity is crucial in shaping an individual’s behavior, values, beliefs, and interpersonal relationships. When the youth lack a sense of belonging to their cultural heritage, they may experience a sense of disorientation, which could lead to mental health issues. As such, it is essential for parents, guardians, and society as a whole, to help the youth in identifying and understanding their cultural heritage. Through education, exposure, and communication, the youth can develop a sense of identity that they can be proud of. This will help them to understand and appreciate diversity and consequently, live harmoniously in the Modern World.