Psychology of American Culture

Description

The book provides a comprehensive view of a psychology of the American culture. It expands on the template of the European American cultures showing how its values of individualism, competition, Protestant work ethics, materialism, enjoyment of leisure activities, physical attractiveness and need for status and power are expressed in everyday communications styles, and educational, and social activities. It shows how the significance of individualism focuses on the importance of the self and the maintenance of high self-esteem; and how these and other closely related American values are all exemplified in, social relationships, sports activities, and television programs. The study also elaborates on Americas cultural diversity resulting from its immigration history, and shows how this phenomenon only adds to the dynamic nature of a culture which now includes numerous ethnic groups with varying attitudes and values associated with group affiliation, family structures, conception of physical and mental illness, languages, religions, time orientation, religious holidays and cultural celebrations. This book weaves the picture of a cultural mosaic, that, notwithstanding its diversity, through processes of acculturation and enculturation, now includes individuals who work to attain the American Dream by adapting to the values and beliefs of their new home.