~ Weekly Blog ~
06 December 2020 – Blog 10:
Image Source: Hilary Lewis and Richard See Toh
As we near the end of the semester, I know this class was only the beginning of a longer, personal journey. What I know thus far of culture in psychology is its complexity as a variable in studying human behavior; all at once— the diversity, variation, and distinctions happen— but with a casual uniformity, consistency and regularity. For reasons expressed, and for reasons unknown, some studied and some not, we all engage in behavior which we ourselves, [and others] seek to understand; What features, traits, or behaviors made “George Smith” do more poorly than “Jorge Gonzales” and could there be a reasonable cultural explanation?” What would this mean and how could any further understanding advance the way of life for people of my culture, other cultures, or all cultures? This is the kind of curiousness that was evoked in me from the beginning of this fall semester.
My attitude about Cross-Cultural Psychology changed munificently during the course of this class. The deeper understanding goes hand in hand with a heightened awareness and appreciation for other cultures, but I think most importantly, my own. I’ve learned how easy it is for people to become so deep-rooted in their own cultures; a process that many do not even realize is happening as it happens. Enculturation, (as this process is termed), means that many people, like me, may not realize it is happening as it continues to occur through-out our lives. The process of enculturation can make it extremely difficult to understand the ways and teachings in other cultures, especially those more extreme or contrary to your own. The effect that enculturation and multiculturalism had on my understanding of Cross-Cultural studies was that the diversity which exists within my own culture made it hard for me to at first, to identify or decipher a specific cultural object, and I had not yet accepted the concept of diversity as a specific cultural element of American culture. Still, it’s much easier to identify and point out the components of other cultures, than it is of my own. I do have a slightly deeper understanding of the role that cross-cultural studies play and have played in the field of Psychology, and definitely developed a heightened curiosity towards the re-examination of valid American theories of human psychology that do not consider a cross-cultural approach.
If I took this class again, I would examine those theories a little closer, and in doing so, I might have interacted with Professor Muth and done more personal research than I actually did. Lastly, if I took this class again, (knowing what I know now) I would do it knowing that more time was needed than I was actually able to give in order to achieve the intended personal results and reach satisfactory understanding pertaining to all of Muth’s objectives. With that being said, I think I did a great job despite my indiscretions in time management and of juggling my responsibilities. Over the last few months, I’ve grown academically because I’ve tried, at every turn, to apply what I learned to every-day life. Additionally, very-easily, I also applied what I was learning in Cross-Cultural Psychology to what I was learning in Psychology of Adulthood and Aging— and contrariwise. Found much satisfaction when the realizations and connections were made. A skill that I acquired from this course that I know I will be able to make use of in my professional life is the creation, purposeful use, and management of a WordPress site as a modern and technological, visual resume/portfolio.
22 November 2020 – Blog 9:
16 November 2020 – Blog 8:
08 November 2020 – Blog 7:
For many years, fairy tales such as those made into movies by Walt Disney were a representation of American cultural norms of that time. That is because the stereotypes made then were based on general simplifications and then popularized; so not necessarily overgeneralizations, yet.
As time goes on and social expectations adapt to social and economic triumphs, these “old-day” simplifications that stick around are malformed into overgeneralizations because we are no longer speaking about the majority of one group, rather just one part of one group. Because of the war culture in America, women were seen as home-makers and care-takers and men were the earners and providers. Back then, this meant that woman did not need education or skill. Over time, this progressed into the overgeneralization that women are more “emotional” and “naïve” and less “witty” and “independent” than men.
Although some movies, for example, those produced by Walt Disney, such as, Snow White, Cinderella, and Beauty and The Beast, all depicted woman as damsels in distress whose happiness was dependent upon male intervention and rescue, there are others that attempted, (whether or not erroneous, in retrospect) to characterize the metaphorical breaking down of the “glass ceiling” and have paved the way for more to come; and more will come because there will always be a stereotype for society to surmount. As good example of an attempt is the Disney film “Mulan”. That is due to the nature of stereotypes; that is partial truths that the human brain uses in cognition processes to help form ideas, opinions, and to create a basis or foundation for further learning.
When I was younger, I did not notice the lack of female characters in film or the attributes given to females and males characters, even animal characters. I also did not watch much television. With that said, I think I probably identified most with a girl from my favorite cartoon when I was younger called “Recess”. The show focused on six elementary school students (4 boys and 2 girls) where inclusiveness could have been better, however, one of the girls Spinelli, was depicted as a girl who was much tougher than some of the boys, dressed similarly, and wore a hat often. I identified with her because she was a girl that wasn’t concerned with impressing boys or wearing makeup, she just wanted to hang out with her friends. Today, there is a show that my daughter watches, called “Odd Squad” that presents an inclusive cast of child investigators, a team made up of more girls than boys, led by a girl, and interactions do not deem a girls opinion less important or less worthy, instead it focuses on the individuals all providing something to the team, Its not hard to see how this message would have a positive consequence to our society. Its not the goal to be viewed as equals. Because the truth is, we (women) aren’t and wont ever be. It is the goal to be seen as and valued for being different, accepted when we do things alike, and equally appreciated in society.
Today, it is evident that in television and movies there is a genuine effort being made by writers, producers, directors, and entire television networks to diminish gender and racial stereotyping in today’s film industry. Although these efforts are discernible and valued, there are still many that fall short in conveying a progressive cultural value that encompasses need for diversity; gender and racial inclusion. For Example, two preset day animated children series come to mind. Paw Patrol and Peppa Pig. In Paw Patrol, each pup has a job, and all but one is a boy. The one girl, Sky, is easily discernible because she wears pink. In Peppa Pig, the “Mummy Pig” is often seen cooking, cleaning, and tending to the home, while “Daddy Pig” goes out to work and comes home to sit for meals and be tended to.
I believe when we are young, things are categorized and generalizations need to be made before deeper learning and understanding occurs. Because of men and woman’s biological differences, and biological roles, 100% gender inclusiveness is probably impossible to attain, and perhaps even potentially harmful. I believe children need to view the physical differences of men and woman in a respectful way, but also keep in mind that the differences exist for a scientific purpose and that television should follow in step with this idea.
When main characters model behaviors that are representative of more egalitarian roles versus gendered roles, it can have a colossal impact on children and young adults regarding their outlook toward gender role and expectations. Young woman and children often adopt gender role stereotypes because it is taught to them through television and many stereotypes seen on television are reinforced at home and in society further contributing to the child’s logic of what it means and looks like to be “male” or “female” in society. This is damaging to possible aspirations and deters important self-identifications being made causing damaging self-perceptions. Traditional gender roles also discourage natural and liberated self-expressions and accomplishments of an individual. Television that fosters stereotypes sends powerful and convincing messages about socially accepted gender roles, which are often biased and outdated. Inclusiveness among genders and the discouragement by society towards film-makers and producers of using stereotypes in film and all media would have very positive societal implications.
01 November 2020 – Blog 6:
SELF-DETERMINTION THEORY:
Self-Determination Theory states that there are three basic psychological needs a person seeks to fulfil in order to thrive in life, in any culture. These three components are: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. However, there are some social and cultural factors that either empower or challenge a person’s sense of desire and motivation, as well as their well-being and performance quality. Those cultural factors, in my case, I believe would be characterized by words such as, liberty, opportunity, individualism, and capitalism. Deci and Ryan suggest that it is the environment a person develops in that can either help or hinder a self-determined perspective. When applying this theory to academics, more specifically, to my own academics, I can see its efficacy. The first component, autonomy, is all about having control over what we do in our lives. For me, the decision to go back to school and get my bachelor’s degree was an easy one; however being able to make that decision autonomously- freely, and without constraint is a huge motivational factor. Because I am a student, a full-time employee, a wife, and a mother of 2 children under 5, the fact that my job is understanding and flexible and all my school is done online without certain meet times, allows me to decide how and when to do the things I need to do. In turn, this provides me with a feeling of independence, freeness and much needed flexibility in my day to day life. The next element, relatedness, is all about social support and connections; the human desire for human interaction; attachment; and bonding. For me, this is satisfied greatly in my part as a mother, but also as a Monarch. When I started at ODU, I felt like I had become a part of something bigger and better than I had been previously. Similarly, when I became a mother I knew that because my children were a part of me, I had then become a part of something bigger and better than I had been before having them. When I become a therapist, my sense of relatedness and belonging will skyrocket. For now, the relationships I hold with my professors, classmates, friends, family, and co-workers satisfy this motivational desire. Lastly, competence is achieved when you feel like you have done well; when you have achieved your goal or mastered your talent or skill. The sense of competence allows a person to feel prepared and equipped to handle the things that come their way. Reflecting inward, I believe I fall in the middle of the scale when it comes to intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in the desire to fulfill the need for competence. Sometimes, I feel like I need to know that I’ve done well on a test or a certain assignment for its topic subject or that I did a task at home or work properly, for my own satisfaction. Other times, however, I need to do well on a test or a task, not because I am interested or personally motivated, but because it’s a requirement for a primary goal, or because I want someone to know that I am educated in the topics that I communicate.
25 October 2020 – Blog 5:
Who is Misty? The response to that question would likely differ depending on who you ask, But if you’re asking me, the first reaction I’d have would be to think of the kinds of answers those other people might respond with. This is because, as I’ve expressed in earlier posts, how we perceive ourselves is greatly influenced by how others view us. Consequently, I’d be thinking about the people in my life who could answer this question most authentically and the effect of the roles they’ve played in my life. Finally, I’d be inclined to ask myself If I trust and believe the responses I think they’d give. After the consideration and reflections, I’d answer with these thoughts lingering in mind. Although I believe it is impossible to conclude who someone really is in just 10 statements, I’ll offer ten for the purpose of providing deeper insight into the reasons I think I am who I say I am.
I am a Mother
I am grateful
I am empathetic
I am a Sister
I am a Daughter
I am a Wife
I am an introvert
I am honest/open
I am an American
I am forgiving
Image source: https://iminc.org
Above, in bold, I describe my self by the roles I play in my life. These are examples of an interdependent construal of self. The adjectives used; the human personality traits are examples of an independent construal of self.
I’m a mother, and I wholeheartedly agree with the old English proverb “It takes a village…” I’d like to teach my children to grow up and be self-sufficient and instill in them the integrity behind the saying that “if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” Relying on others for guidance, support and satisfaction versus staying “true to you” and being self-sufficient despite what others might think or what help is being offered is the construal of both interdependent and independent views, respectively. We are built to depend on the world that we are brought into and on the people who brought us in to it. It is only though these interactions that we are able to become sufficiently independent. I believe interdependence is a human feature, while independence is an individual trait that is learned. Because of this, it’s easier for me to relate to the interdependent proverb, “it takes a village…” because it’s ‘the village’ that will teach you the independence that you need to be self serving and sufficient in life.
11 October 2020 – Blog 4:
Well, I didn’t do so great on the first Exam. I’m not surprised because I’ve never been great at test taking, and especially not tests with time limits. I’ve been having a hard time this semester as it is my first semester back to school after two children and five years.
I thought I knew the material and was disappointed to see my score. Immediately after the test was available to view, and before having read the Blog 4 prompt, I copied the results of the entire test and pasted them into a word document. I then deleted questions I got correct, leaving only the questions with with wrong answers.
Next, I set out to answer them correctly and saved the document in a notes folder. This is something I’ve done since the beginning years of college. It’s a beneficial way to study what needs to be studied versus studying what you already know. I hope to do better the next time Exams come around.
04 October 2020 – Blog 3:
5 Factor Model of personality (FFM), describes the core values of human personality using five major factors. The test consists of a series of contextual statements, whereby the test-taker responds by recording their level of agreeance to each statement. Once the scores are calculated quantitatively, the degree of exemplification of each trait is analyzed. The results, given by placing high or low scores on each general trait category, proposes tendencies of the test-taker towards certain behaviors based on these core traits. Below you will find a visual representation of my scores, and under that, a summarization of each category as they pertain to me.
Openness – (score of 86) In this category, I scored high. This suggests that in moments of indecisiveness. this personality trait could be a motivating factor. Being open-minded, as this trait category suggests is a personal value of those who score high, could very well be mistaken for indecisiveness, when in context – it could really just mean an unwillingness to offer definitive terms on select subjects.
Conscientiousness – (score of 94) When it comes to conscientiousness, I knew I would score high. Of the five factors regarding personality, I scored highest in this dimension. This suggests that manifestations of this core trait include behaviorisms that exemplify loyalty, gratitude, honesty, resilience and accountability. It is interesting that I scored high, even though I knew I would, because the qualities of this core trait use adjective words that I used to describe my core values in Blog 2.
Extraversion – (score of 68) People who score high in this category are likely to be outgoing and social. A score of 68 (low) suggests a tendency toward introversion, opposed to extraversion. This score is not surprising to me. I know I have an inclination to spend my free time alone, with only my thoughts; I can be alone, and be content, but when I finally desire relation or connections, I crave them intensely. Because of this, it makes sense that I scored “on the high-side” of the low-spectrum.
Agreeableness – (score of 75) To agree or not to agree? That is the question. This dimension of personality, in my opinion, is the least reliable of factors to assume typical behavior from. This is because, as editors of The five-factor model of personality across cultures, McCrae & Allik (2002), this trait dimension speaks more to the tones and functions of and within outward relationships rather than interpersonal ones (pg. 8).
Reference: The five-factor model of personality across cultures (p. 8). New York, NY: Kluwer Academic/Plenum.
Neuroticism – (score of 77) As I see it, the high-scoring side of this category is the most negatively viewed of personality traits. A high score in Neuroticism can suggest that the test-taker frequently experiences feelings associated with depression and anxiety. This is absolutely the case in my regard. I am a worrier, and that I know of myself. A high score in this category parallels with behaviors that I exhibit often, and the opinions of people that surround me would give credence to this assertion.
27 September 2020 – Blog 2:
My core values; the ones most easily to identify within myself and most noticed by others are, loyalty, gratitude, honesty, resilience, and accountability. Each of these values creates guiding principles by which I choose to live and interact in the world. To my family and the people who support me, I am loyal. I support them and they support me; my family and I have an allegiance with one another that cannot be penetrated by others, or by our environments. I am always grateful for their returned and unconditional support; I am grateful for what my parents and caregivers have done and continue to do for me in life.
I walk through life with gratitude for every opportunity that I have to experience this life in the way that I choose to. I am grateful for the financial help towards my degree (education). If it were not for my resilience and accountability, I do not think I would be as grateful or honest as I am. I have the ability to get through the bad parts of life, and “bounce back”, grounding me with insight and direction. I try to find purpose in the things that happen and assume responsibility for my part in the failures as well as the successes.
I keep an understanding with and of myself that I am too resilient and that that can be viewed as ungrateful and unaccepting of the loyalties others have towards me. Nevertheless, these occasions help me to remember that what I used to be is not what I am now, and who I am now may not be who I’ll always want to be. I work on myself like a life-long project and treat my growth in almost every area as an experiment that doesn’t end until my life is being described for what it was.
Throughout my education, my family has been extremely supportive, and I am truly grateful; my resiliency and accountability however, give me the tools I need to complete school and I know that I would do so, even without their support. I acknowledge that with their support however, my journey is made easier and calls for much less resiliency than what I am able to put forth. Being honest with myself and being truthful with others creates a comfortable and successful environment; This is the environment that I want to be in, values I want to observe around me, and the ones I found within myself to be imperative to my behavior in life.
My principles or way of life is flawed — I have to add — because it feels untruthful to not admit that I have not mastered the principle of any value and probably never will. This process of thought and understanding represents humility. For me, this is the most important values when it comes to human interaction and positive self-perceptions. Holding humility as a core value; you will never let yourself miss the things the world and those loyal to you can show you. The role that my parents and caregivers played in my decision to further my education was due to the gratitude I have for them and the humbleness I maintain in my daily life.
20 September 2020 – Blog 1:
Picture created by me using Microsoft Paint 3D. Depicts the pieces of a person that make a person who they are, but are also missing some pieces. This is indicative of the growth and development that happens within ourselves and not attributed to only ourselves, but to the people offering their pieces as well.
Who can describe me, If I can’t?
-Misty CROSS
Do you find it challenging to observe representations of your culture? By this, I don’t mean difficulty observing your cultures as it exists around you; I mean – do you struggle to define your own culture by looking inward for the description- because I do. Or, at least, I did. (Ok, so maybe that’s still up for debate).
I wondered at the commencement of PSYC 420, if my engagement in this class would truly offer the guidance I desire when it comes to the task of characterizing my culture, as part of my journey toward self-discovery. The course objectives, as they are written today, do maintain a purpose comparable to my own, but I couldn’t have imagined to what degree – until now.
So here I am – a little further into my voyage, (educational and personal), and now that I’m settling in and getting acquainted with the terminology, structure, and expectations of this course, I’m ambitious to be an exemplification of its operative structure. This blog, by way of style and format, is my attempt at keeping you reading, which this course gave me the opportunity to do. I will continue to use this platform as a place to express my knowledge, questions, and personal excursion. I mean, they are graded assignments, so it’s win-win.
Learning and achieving good grades is an academic responsibility I hold significant. On the other hand, the attainment of knowledge and recall of that knowledge through repetitious cognitive stimulation activities remain leisurely processes for me. I consider it a strong advantage to have directional instruction of my accomplished professors during this phase of my life. I plan to absorb the summarizations of their experiences and knowledge whenever I’m presented with an opportunity.
Beyond the objective of becoming [more] competent in intercultural topics as they relate to my field of study, through the guidance described, I hope to come to a juncture characterized by a deeper understanding of myself and a strongly developed intercultural maturity. I think this is the most important part, because understanding and being able to describe who and what you perceive yourself to be (and others) makes an impact on how others view and identify with you. After all, how could I ask for their genuine attempt at understanding and appreciating me –for who and what I am – if I’m not entirely clear on that myself?
Be First to Comment