Socialization, Cultural Identity, and the Impact of Technology: Exploring Family Dynamics

QUESTION

The Social Cognitive Behavior Theory combines many areas of psychology to postulate how we think and act are based on societal influences (Brehm & Cone, 2013). It combines aspects of Watson’s theory of behavioral conditioning (through parental influence), James’s The Social Self (which states that one’s thoughts and feelings are modified through social interactions), psychoanalysis, behaviorism, social learning theory and family research to provide a framework for families at a microscopic level. In a way, the social cognitive behavior theory gave rise to the Biosocial theory, which has 7 basic assumptions:

The evolutionary origin of humans has been impacted by families while families have also influenced the evolution of humans

The genetic predispositions of individual members influence the family and, conversely, the family influences the health and well-being of its members

biosocial influences are composed of the biological, the social and the biosocial

human biological and biosocial variables do not determine human conduct but pose limitations and constraints as well as possibilities and opportunities for families

our environment influences the adaptions of our physiology

we can trace our evolutionary history to determine why adaptations were made

although you can look at proximate, distal and ultimate levels individually, we have more a more accurate representation by looking at them together

(Smith & Hamon, (2012).

This theory allows us to examine family process, provides a framework for family therapy and interventions and a way to identify balances of power between individuals and within the family unit. There are limitations to this theory, including the fact that is limited in addressing ethnic and gender issues and does not focus on the relationships outside the family that can influence a child. Additionally, this theory has a “westernize” cultural view. Therefore, when analyzing families outside of Western culture, it does not account for all things the family may endure or their culture. An example of this is Asian American Families. According to the Handbook of Asian American Psychology, written by Lee & Zane (1998), it’s important to first understand that Asian immigrants did not work jobs in industrial settings like other European immigrants; they worked in agriculture and service sectors. This meant, they were getting paid less money for working longer and harder hours. As a result, Asian American groups formed social community groups based on structural, religious or place of origin for survival rather than business or political ties like other European immigrants.

This type of grouping does affect the identification and values of children growing up within the community. However, it is challenging for a child to develop a sense of identity when they are not the majority. For example, a small child might recognize that they are different from the white majority and gravitate toward their Asian community. Nonetheless, there are subgroups within the Asian community that differ: Korean-American, Chinese-American, Japanese-American and so on, which make the child pause on their Asian identity if they do not identity with the Asian majority. Therefore, ethnic identity is affected by different social systems with both positive and negative reinforcements that determine behavioral patterns and development (Lee & Zane, 1998). Additionally, immigrant families placed pressure on their children to assimilate, become a part of American and Western culture, and achieve more. According to Go (2022), her job was self-actualization while her parents focused on survival. Although Go discusses about the gap between Asian families and mental health, she makes commentary regarding the pressure she felt on achieving success versus the sacrifices her parents made for her and the family. Her commentary reflects Asian values of collectivism, emotional self control, humility, family recognition through achievement and conformity to the norm (Go, 2022). This can create conflict within a family as the parents hold onto traditional values while the children are influenced by American culture who deem them the “model minority” (Lee & Zane, 1998).

Questions

1. Based on this post, how do you believe families socialize their children into society and what is considered important?

2. Do you believe minorities have different struggles with socializing children? As an APRN how would you help a child and family navigate potential incongruencies between their family culture and society culture?

3. With technology bringing the world closer to together and social media platforms having a strong influence on children and the “norm”, how do you think this will affect development, societal interactions, and family attachment/diagrams?

ANSWER

Socialization, Cultural Identity, and the Impact of Technology: Exploring Family Dynamics

Introduction

The social cognitive behavior theory provides insights into how families influence the thoughts, behaviors, and development of individuals. However, this theory has limitations when considering cultural and ethnic diversity, as it tends to have a Western cultural view. This essay discusses the socialization of children by families, the challenges faced by minorities in socializing their children, and the potential impact of technology on development, societal interactions, and family dynamics.

Socialization and the Importance Placed by Families

Families play a vital role in socializing their children into society by imparting cultural values, norms, and expectations. They transmit knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors that are considered important for the child’s development and functioning in the larger community. This includes teachings on moral values, language, customs, traditions, and appropriate social interactions. Families may prioritize traits like respect, obedience, honesty, and academic success, depending on their cultural background and societal expectations.

Struggles Faced by Minorities in Socializing Children

Minorities often face unique challenges in socializing their children due to the potential incongruencies between their family culture and the dominant societal culture. As an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you can help navigate these struggles by fostering cultural sensitivity, providing culturally appropriate care, and promoting open dialogue. This may involve engaging in culturally competent assessments, collaborating with community resources, and facilitating support groups where families can share experiences and receive guidance on bridging cultural gaps.

Impact of Technology on Development, Societal Interactions, and Family Dynamics

Technology, particularly social media platforms, has brought the world closer together and significantly influences children’s development, societal interactions, and family dynamics. While technology offers opportunities for knowledge sharing, connection, and cultural exposure, it also poses challenges. Excessive screen time and social media can lead to decreased face-to-face interactions, reduced family bonding, and potential negative impacts on mental health and self-esteem. As an APRN, you can educate families about the importance of setting boundaries, promoting healthy technology use, and fostering open communication within the family.

Conclusion

Families play a crucial role in socializing children into society, imparting cultural values, and preparing them for the challenges of the wider community. However, minorities may face additional struggles in navigating the cultural incongruencies between their family culture and the dominant societal culture. As an APRN, you can support these families by promoting cultural sensitivity, offering culturally appropriate care, and facilitating dialogue to bridge the gaps between cultures. Additionally, the impact of technology on development, societal interactions, and family dynamics cannot be ignored. It is essential to guide families in managing technology use, promoting healthy interactions, and maintaining strong family attachments. By addressing these issues, healthcare professionals can contribute to the well-being and successful socialization of children within their diverse cultural contexts.