Concept and Method in Cross-Cultural and Cultural Psychology

Emphasis in cultural and cross-cultural psychology on psychological differences leads to stereotyping.

Ype H. Poortinga (Author)

9781108827614, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 4 November 2021

75 pages
22.8 x 15.2 x 0.5 cm, 0.134 kg

An overview is given of cross-cultural psychology and cultural psychology, focusing on theory and methodology. In Section 1 historical developments in research are traced; it is found that initially extensive psychological differences tend to shrink when more carefully designed studies are conducted. Section 2 addresses the conceptualization of “culture” and of “a culture”. For psychological research the notion “culture” is considered too vague; more focal explanatory concepts are required. Section 3 describes methodological issues, taking the notion of the empirical cycle as a lead for both qualitative and quantitative research. Pitfalls in research design and data analysis of behavior-comparative studies, and the need for replication are discussed. Section 4 suggests to move beyond research on causal relationships and to incorporate additional questions, addressing the function and the development of behavior patterns in ontogenetic, phylogenetic and historical time. Section 5 emphasizes the need for applied research serving the global village.

Introduction
1. Historical Overview
2. Conceptualization
3. Method
4. Incorporating development and change
5. (C)cp for the global village
6. Epilogue.

Subject Areas: Social, group or collective psychology [JMH], Psychological methodology [JMB], Psychology [JM], Cultural studies [JFC]