Cultural differences

How are the three deep structure elements interrelated? Are those links the same in every culture?

During the chapter, we discussed cultural differences in the perception and treatment of the elderly. Why do you think the differences exist?

What are some ways a person’s family influences his or her cultural identity?

What do you see as the major differences between nuclear and extended families? How do these differences influence communication between members of the family?

Why do you believe families in the United States have experienced so many changes in the last two decades? What are these changes? Do you believe the changes are positive or negative?

Was the parenting style in your home more authoritarian or laissez-faire?

Do you believe mass media and social networking will make major alterations to gender roles in the next ten years? Why or why not?

Compare how the following four approaches to child rearing would respond to a child’s aggressive behavior:

  • (1) authoritarian,
  • (2) laissez-faire,
  • (3) collective, and
  • (4) individualistic.

Will globalization eventually make all families alike? If so, is that good or bad?

Is male dominance universal? Is so, why?