Cultural difference

Cultural Effects on Individualism-Collectivism

Cultural differences were examined in twins raised apart in different countries (South Korea and the U.S.). This study utilized reared-apart twins, particularly those in contrasting cultural contexts, to understand the impact of genetic factors on behaviors like intelligence and personality.

Case Study Overview

A significant case involved identical South Korean twins, U, raised in the U.S. by adoptive parents, and S, raised in South Korea. Their separation occurred at age two when U got lost and was later adopted. Years later, U discovered her twin sister through a DNA registry established for reunited family members.

Research Methodology

Both twins underwent various assessments, including IQ tests (Wechsler), personality surveys, and individualism-collectivism evaluations. The research aimed to analyze their upbringing effects on personality traits and cognitive abilities.

Findings

Significant differences emerged between the twins:

• Family Environment: S had a more supportive upbringing than U.

• Self-Esteem: Similar self-esteem levels suggest genetic influences.

• General Ability Scores: U scored 84, while S scored 100; their 16-point difference surpasses the typical mean difference for twins raised together, possibly due to U's prior concussions.

• Individualism-Collectivism: U showed individualistic traits, indicative of adaptation to U.S. culture, whereas S’s collectivist scores align with South Korean cultural norms.

Conclusion

The study underscores how different cultural upbringings can shape values and perceivable traits even among genetically identical individuals. Future research on additional cases of transnational identical twins is encouraged to further explore these cultural implications.