As early as the fifth century B.C., the Greek historian Thucydides contrasted the self-control and stoicism of Spartans with the more indulgent and freethinking citizens of Athens.
Today, unique behaviors and characteristics seem ingrained in certain cultures.
Italians wildly gesticulate when they talk. Dutch children are notably easygoing and less fussy. Russians rarely smile in public.
As developmental psychologists, we’re fascinated by these differences, how they take shape and how they get passed along from one generation to the next.
Our work explores the way a society’s values influences the choices parents make — and how this, in turn, influences who their kids become. Although genetics certainly matter, the way you behave isn’t hard-wired.
In the past two decades, researchers have shown how culture can shape your personality.