Cultural vs Universal Psychology

Cultural vs Universal Psychology

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Find one research study (or more) to explain the following concepts to provide either evidence for it (prove it) or against it (disprove it), you may provide evidence for either side. Explain, describe, compare and contrast:

– Psychological processes are universal

– Psychological processes result from cultural differences

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Cultural vs Universal Psychology

The concept of universal psychological processes suggests that human cognitive and emotional experiences are consistent across different cultures and societies. Researchers such as Ekman (1992) have found evidence supporting the universality of certain emotions, particularly facial expressions, which appear to be recognized and experienced similarly worldwide. Ekman’s studies on facial expressions of emotions like happiness, sadness, anger, and fear showed that individuals from various cultures, including those with minimal exposure to Western media, could accurately identify these basic emotions. This suggests that certain psychological processes, like emotional recognition and expression, may be universal, regardless of cultural background. Such findings indicate a shared biological foundation in human psychology that transcends cultural boundaries.

Psychological Processes Resulting from Cultural Differences

On the other hand, some psychological processes are shaped by cultural influences, suggesting that cognition and behavior are not universally the same. Nisbett et al. (2001) provide evidence for how cultural differences influence cognitive processes, specifically highlighting distinctions between Eastern and Western thought patterns. Their research showed that Westerners tend to engage in more analytic thinking, focusing on individual objects and their properties, while Easterners are more likely to adopt holistic thinking, focusing on the context and relationships between objects. These cultural differences in cognitive processing suggest that not all psychological processes are universal; rather, they are shaped by the values, beliefs, and social practices of a particular culture.

Comparison of Both Perspectives

When comparing these two perspectives, it is clear that while some psychological processes may be universal, others are distinctly influenced by cultural contexts. The universality of emotions like fear or happiness points to biological roots, but the ways in which these emotions are expressed, interpreted, and regulated can differ widely depending on cultural norms. For example, while fear is a universal emotion, its expression may be more restrained in certain cultures, especially in collectivist societies where emotional control is emphasized. Thus, while psychological processes like basic emotions may be universal, more complex cognitive and social processes—such as decision-making, problem-solving, and self-concept—are often deeply embedded in cultural practices and beliefs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both arguments have strong evidence supporting them. Psychological processes such as basic emotional expressions are likely universal, rooted in human biology. However, many cognitive and behavioral processes are shaped by culture, with different societies fostering unique ways of thinking, problem-solving, and interpreting experiences. Both universal and culturally influenced processes are integral to understanding human psychology, and future research must continue to explore how these forces interact and influence behavior across different contexts.

References

Ekman, P. (1992). Are there basic emotions? Psychological Review, 99(3), 550-553.
Nisbett, R. E., Peng, K., Choi, I., & Norenzayan, A. (2001). Culture and systems of thought: Holistic versus analytic cognition. Psychological Review, 108(2), 291-310.