A Comparative Analysis of American and Japanese Cultures: Insights and Perspectives

QUESTION

DISCUSSION 2

In this week’s discussion, I chose Japanese culture. Some important characteristics of the Japanese culture are their core values. Japan is located off the east coast of Asia. In Japan, people constantly think of others and manners; they believe in doing their best, respecting elders, and understanding their societal roles (Shiraev & Levy, 2021). The main religion in Japan is Shinto, and their politics follow a parliamentary constitutional monarchy.

America is located in North America and is known as more religious than any other developed country (Arnett & Jensen, 2019, p. 365). We follow the constitutional federal republic and presidential system. My culture is more competitive, risk-taking,  and liberal (Shiraev & Levy, 2021).

Arnett and Jensen (2019) shared that culture determines what we learn, what we aspire to become, and how we see ourselves in relation to the world. The Japanese culture sends their children to preschool like the American culture but not for the same reasons. American culture sends their children to preschool to learn, while the Japanese culture sends their children to preschool to learn how to be a part of a group (Arnett & Jensen, 2019, p. 241). Another difference in educational opportunities between the two cultures is that Japanese culture takes a more guided participation approach where they take the time to teach children valuable skills, like food preparation, grocery list, and other daily activities within the family (Arnett & Levy, 2019). American culture tends to be away from their children for most of the day; during this time, children are in childcare and preschools and learn more about social interactions, reading, and math (Arnett &Levy, 2019). Japanese culture is more of a collectivist culture where they value family, kinship group, ethnic group, and the nation are supposed to come first and think highly of themselves if frowned upon (Arnett & Jensen, 2019). American Cultural is more of an individualism cultural. We believe that high self-esteem is important; we tend to think only about the people in our family only, self-reliant and self-sufficient (Arnett & Levy, 2019).

According to Arnett (2000), emerging adulthood does apply to both cultures because of the higher demand for higher education. All over the world, the economy is changing in both cultures I discussed today the need for higher education is becoming important in these two cultures because of the higher pay and better jobs that are offered with a college degree (Arnett, 2000). Emerging adulthood is growing worldwide and can be considered to exist in any culture where there is a minimum of seven between the end of adolescence (Arnett, 2000). This could mean completing secondary school, having a stable job, marriage, and living independently (Arnett, 2000). In American and Japanese cultures, tertiary education is very important and can take four to six years to complete (Arnett & Jensen, 2019). With furthering education becoming a higher demand in some cultures, it has caused a new stage called emerging adulthood.

Reference

Shiraev, E. B., & Levy, D. A. (2021). Cross-cultural Psychology: Critical Thinking and Contemporary Applications (7th ed.). Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.

Arnett, J. J., & Jensen, L. A. (2019). Human development: A cultural approach (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson

Arnett, J. J. (2000). Emerging adulthood: A theory of development from the late teens through the twenties Links to an external site. American Psychologist, 55(5), 469-480. doi:10.1037/0003- 066X.55.5.469

• Ask a probing question and provide insight into how you would answer your question and why.

ANSWER

A Comparative Analysis of American and Japanese Cultures: Insights and Perspectives

Introduction

This essay builds upon the discussion of American and Japanese cultures, providing additional insights and perspectives. Both cultures possess unique characteristics and values that shape their societal norms, political systems, and educational approaches. By understanding and appreciating these cultural differences, we can develop a broader perspective and foster cross-cultural understanding. This response will delve deeper into the topics of core values, educational practices, and the concept of emerging adulthood in both cultures.

Core Values and Cultural Differences

Both Japanese and American cultures have distinct core values that shape their societal expectations and behaviors. In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on collectivism, respect for authority, and the fulfillment of societal roles (Shiraev & Levy, 2021). The importance of manners, hierarchy, and harmonious social interactions are deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. On the other hand, American culture is characterized by individualism, competition, and a focus on personal achievement and autonomy (Shiraev & Levy, 2021). The American value of self-reliance and self-sufficiency promotes individual aspirations and a sense of personal identity.

Educational Approaches

Education plays a crucial role in both American and Japanese societies, but the approaches differ significantly. In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on group cohesion and collective responsibility. Preschool education focuses on teaching children how to function within a group, while guided participation within the family teaches practical life skills (Arnett & Jensen, 2019). In contrast, American preschool education places greater emphasis on individual development, social interactions, and early academic skills (Arnett & Jensen, 2019). American culture values independence, critical thinking, and the pursuit of personal goals, which are reflected in the educational system.

Emerging Adulthood

The concept of emerging adulthood, introduced by Arnett (2000), is applicable to both American and Japanese cultures. In both societies, there is an increasing demand for higher education and a transition period between adolescence and adulthood. In Japan, obtaining a college degree is highly valued, and the pursuit of stable employment and marriage is prioritized (Arnett, 2000). Similarly, in the United States, emerging adulthood is characterized by the pursuit of higher education, exploration of personal and professional identities, and the delay of traditional adult milestones (Arnett, 2000). The duration of emerging adulthood may vary, but the underlying principles of self-exploration and transition to adult roles are present in both cultures.

Conclusion

The comparison of American and Japanese cultures reveals distinct values, educational approaches, and developmental stages. While Japan emphasizes collectivism, social harmony, and vocational education, the United States values individualism, personal achievement, and higher education. Recognizing and appreciating these cultural differences fosters a broader understanding of diverse societies and promotes cross-cultural acceptance. By acknowledging the unique aspects of each culture and seeking common ground, we can promote cultural exchange and create a more inclusive and globally aware society.

References

Arnett, J. J., & Jensen, L. A. (2019). Human development: A cultural approach (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Arnett, J. J. (2000). Emerging adulthood: A theory of development from the late teens through the twenties. American Psychologist, 55(5), 469-480. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.55.5.469

Shiraev, E. B., & Levy, D. A. (2021). Cross-cultural Psychology: Critical Thinking and Contemporary Applications (7th ed.). Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.