Cultural Differences

Cultural Differences

Cultural differences are apparent around every corner. Differences such as ethnicity and color are obvious at times. In other circumstances, differences are not as obvious. In concepts, such as individualism and collectivism, acculturation, sexual orientation, religion, aggression, and gender identity, the differences are not as apparent. The author of this paper will analyze two of these concepts: aggression and gender identity. The author will also discuss these concepts' significance in understanding cultural differences.

Multicultural Concept: Aggression

Aggression Analyzed

Aggression has been thought to be a universal trait, found in cultures around the world (Segall, Dasen, Berry, & Poortinga, 1999). However, the question remains, is aggression more severe in different cultures? One of the main ways culture affects aggression, is the way aggression is defined (Bond, 2004). Aggression means different things in different cultures and what may be considered aggressive in one culture, may not be aggressive in another culture (Bond, 2004). Also in many cultures, showing aggression or being aggressive is a way to show power and status within a society or culture (Segal et al., 1999). According to Segall et al. (19990, aggression is caused by a combination of culture, views, beliefs, environment, and childhood experiences. One main cross-cultural difference in aggressive behavior is that males are more aggressive than females (Segall, et al., 1999).

Significance in Understanding Cultural Differences

The significance of aggression in understanding cultural differences is substantial. Researching aggression cross-culturally helps researchers to understand what is considered aggressive in different cultures. This research also allows researchers to determine what behaviors are to assert power, to define status, and which are just simply mean or violent. Finally, researching aggression, and finding the differences between cultures and aggression allows researchers to determine ways of handling aggression in the correct way, learning how to control aggressive behaviors, and how certain cultures should handle aggression from other cultures.

Multicultural Concept: Gender Identity

Gender Identity Analyzed

Gender and gender identity is one of the main differences found in humans. Gender is also one of the largest multicultural concepts. When researching gender in cultural differences, researchers must take into account several aspects. Behavioral differences among genders, gender roles, and relationships between the genders are impacted by different cultural variables (Segall et al., 1999). Behavioral differences among genders are highly influenced by the culture. In some cultures, females are nurtured more, taught to be sensitive, and caring. The males in that culture are taught to be tough, strong, and hardworking (Segall et al., 1999).

Gender roles differ among cultures as well. In some cultures the gender roles differ greatly. In some cultures the male role is to be the bread winner of the family, earning the money, working hard, and providing for his family (Segall et al., 1999). The female role is to care for her family and home and does not work outside the home (Segall et al., 1999). In other cultures it is normal for both genders to work, and in others the females will work, and the males will stay home (Segall et al.,