Cultural differences in self-concept development

In a follow-up study, Wang investigated the developmental course of cultural differences. European
American and Chinese children of various ages were asked to describe themselves. Wang calculated the
number of times the children mentioned a private, personal identity or a private, collective one.

In this study, it was observed that both cultural group have steady increase in their private, personal
identities from preschool to kindergarten. But on the 2 nd grade, there is a noticeable difference between
these two cultural group.

On the 2nd grade of Chinese children, there is a steep rise in their collective identities compared with the
European American Children. At that age, 7-8 years old European American children focus on their
personal attributes, dispositional qualities, and inner traits which means that their self-concept is based
on their private, personal terms that emphasizes the uniqueness of the individual’s personal
characteristics. Their personal identities are being more dominant than collective identities because at
that age, they are becoming aware of their individualistic culture.

They are self-oriented, being independent instead of identifying with a group mentality. They see each
other as only loosely linked, and value personal goals over group interests.

In individualistic culture, being dependent upon others is often considered shameful or

embarrassing. Independence is highly valued. People often place a greater emphasis on standing
out and being unique.

A person from an individualistic culture might say "I am analytical, sarcastic, and athletic." This can be
contrasted with self-descriptions from people living in collectivist societies, who would be more likely to
say something like, "I am a good daughter and loyal friend."

On the other hand, Chinese children, although they have collectivist culture their self-concepts
are not merely based on collective identities but mix of personal identities and collective identities. But
in general, Chinese still have greater collectivist culture. They give more importance in being
dependable, generous and having good relationship with others to consider themselves good.

Is Adolescence Invariably Stressful?

Adolescence is clearly a psychologically rich period of life. The dramatic physical,

cognitive, and social changes that occur can have many negative consequences, as

evidenced by the disproportionately high rates of substance abuse, accidents related to

high-risk behavior, and suicides among this demographic group (Eaton et al., 2005). But is
adolescence invariably stressful? The answer appears to be “no.” Although many

adolescents confront the sorts of issues Erikson and others have spoken of and experience

temporary disturbances in the self-concept, these changes are rarely extreme or long-

lasting. Moreover, many positive changes occur in adolescence as well, including strong

ties to peer groups and a new sense of freedom and control. For these reasons, the

majority of adolescents do not experience the kind of anguish and turmoil that the term

“identity crisis” implies (Petersen, Compas, Brooks-Gunn, Stemmler, Ey, & Grant, 1993).