Exploring the Role of Cultural Norms in Shaping Psychology: Real-Life Examples

Exploring the Role of Cultural Norms in Shaping Psychology: Real-Life Examples

Psychology, as a discipline, seeks to understand and explain human behavior. It attempts to answer fundamental questions like “What motivates human action?”, “How do we process information?”, and “What determines our personalities?” In addressing these queries, psychologists often study individual differences and similarities in behavior. However, social and cultural factors also play a significant role in shaping psychology. Cultural norms, in particular, have a profound impact on human behavior and psychology. In this article, we will explore the role of cultural norms in shaping psychology through real-life examples.

Cultural Norms and Their Effect on Behavior

Cultural norms refer to the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior in a particular society or group. These norms influence how individuals perceive themselves, how they relate to others, and how they make decisions. They can also shape individual attitudes, values, and behavior. For instance, in collectivist cultures, where the group’s welfare takes priority over individual interests, people might exhibit more cooperative behavior. Contrastingly, in individualistic cultures, where personal autonomy and achievement are valued, people tend to be more independent and self-reliant. These differences can affect how individuals perceive and approach problems, handle stress, and form relationships.

One such example of this is the way masculinity is perceived in different cultures. In societies where masculinity is associated with aggression and dominance, men tend to demonstrate more hostile and violent behavior. An extreme example is the practice of FGM (Female genital mutilation), which is prevalent in many cultures that celebrate masculinity. In contrast, in cultures where masculinity is associated with cooperation and social harmony, men are more likely to exhibit non-violent behavior.

Cultural Norms and Mental Health

Cultural norms also influence mental health. Cultural differences in perceptions of mental illness impact the way individuals with mental health concerns are treated. Psychiatrist Dr. Laurence Kirmayer has extensively researched mental health outcomes in indigenous populations. He argues that “culture shapes the individual psyche and influences mental health both as a risk factor and source of resilience.” This insight emphasizes the importance of taking a culturally sensitive approach while addressing mental health concerns.

For instance, in some cultures, mental illness is viewed as a spiritual affliction and can be treated with traditional healing practices. In others, psychological interventions and medication are preferred. A lack of understanding of these cultural practices can cause misdiagnosis, which might lead to inappropriate treatments and further exacerbation of the illness.

Cultural Norms and Prejudice

Cultural norms can also influence prejudice and discrimination. In some cultures, certain ethnic or religious groups might be considered superior or inferior based on cultural norms. This phenomenon can lead to discrimination, conflict, and even violence.

One example of this is caste-based discrimination in India. Despite being illegal, the caste system is still prevalent in many parts of the country. People belonging to lower castes often face discrimination in education, employment, and healthcare. This bias is fueled by cultural norms associated with caste, reinforced by society and perpetuated through generations. The result is a deeply ingrained prejudice and oppression of marginalized groups.

Conclusion

This article has discussed the role of cultural norms in shaping psychology using real-life examples. Cultural norms shape human behavior by influencing attitudes, values, and decision-making. They also impact mental health and can cause prejudice and discrimination. It is essential to understand these cultural factors while studying psychology to develop a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior. As the world becomes increasingly globalized, acknowledging the impact of culture on psychology is crucial for building a more inclusive and empathetic society.