Enculturation and Personality
...epfather play a bigger part in the child’s life than in other societies. Through enculturation one learns the socially appropriate way of satisfying one’s biologically determined needs. It is important to distinguish between the needs in witch they are satisfied. A North American’s idea of a comfortable way to sleep will vary greatly from that of a Japanese. The biological needs of humans are the same as those of other animals: besides food and sleep, they include shelter, companionship, self-defense, and sexual gratification. Each culture determines in its own way how these needs will be met. Another method how outside influences play a role, influences such as media, peers, and other parts of society. All of these parts have major roles in our culture. Our parents or household teach our survival and values, no matter what they may be. Media influences us in our views of the outside world and obliquely molds us in what our perception on different areas and situations. Studies have shown that there is some kind of relationship between enculturation and personality development, although it is also clear that each person begins with certain limitations that are genetically inherited. In some cultures particular child-rearing practices seem to promote the development of compliant personalities, while in others differe...