In chapter 4 you are learning about how nature and nurture interact. As the text notes, “Environments trigger gene activity. And our genetically influenced traits evoke significant responses in others. Thus, a child’s impulsivity and aggression may evoke an angry response from a parent or teacher, who reacts warmly to well-behaved children in the family or classroom. In such cases, the child’s nature and the parents’ nurture interact. Gene and scene dance together” (p. 141). Culture also plays an important role in shaping our development and who we become.
• What are the major differences between collectivist and individualist cultures?
• Do you consider yourself to be more of a collectivist or an individualist? To test this, complete the “Are You More Individualist or Collectivist” worksheet.
• How do you think your sense of self as individualist or collectivist has influenced your behavior, emotions, and thoughts? Include some specific examples.
