Social Psychology (16): Intercultural Relations and Global Change

What are the key predictions of Modernisation theory?

Cultural beliefs and values will become more secular and rational due to economic development and industrialisation.

What characterises Post-Modernisation?

Shift from manufacturing → service economy, leading to more post-materialistic values focused on self-expression rather than survival.

How is cultural change measured?

Through surveys like the World Values Survey, measuring shifts in:

• Traditional vs. secular-rational values

• Survival vs. self-expression values.

Acculturation

The process of cultural change that occurs when different groups come into contact, usually with one group adapting more than the other.

What are Berry’s Acculturation Strategies?

Measured by preference for cultural maintenance and preference for contact with other groups:

• Integration: Maintaining original culture while engaging with other groups.

• Assimilation: Adopting the host culture entirely.

• Separation: Retaining original culture and avoiding contact with the host society.

• Marginalisation: Losing connection to both original and host cultures.

What does Integration predict in terms of wellbeing?

Individuals who integrate tend to have better psychological adaptation and overall wellbeing.

How do settler vs. non-settler societies differ in acculturation patterns?

• In settler societies, integration is more common.

• In non-settler societies, separation predicts psychological adaptation.

What are some identity-related challenges faced by majority groups?

• Symbolic threats to national identity.

• Realistic threats to social dominance.

• Rejection of minority group members.

Perpetual Foreigner Syndrome

Minority group members may be expected to assimilate but are never fully accepted as part of the majority culture.

How does globalisation influence cultural identities?

• Cultures exist within a broader global context.

• Local and global identities shape intercultural relations.

• Pressures exist to maintain cultural distinctiveness.

What are the main conclusions of intercultural relations research?

• Cultures are contexts, not types of people.

• Cultural systems evolve due to socioecological pressures.

• Research needs to move beyond Western-dominated perspectives.