10/28/2020; Culture and Psychology

 

Culture affects psychology. It makes sense, because culture affects every aspect of our lives. The way we view ourselves is often affected by the way we feel we fit into the culture we live in. Those who feel their real self aligns well with what their culture expects of them will often have higher self esteem than those who feel they do not align with their cultural paradigms. These individuals may feel a variety of emotions, including shame. 

I felt the reality of this situation when I found myself pregnant at 18 in a very conservative, religious community. The shame I felt lasted much longer than my repentance process did. I knew that Heavenly Father had forgiven me, but I felt shame because I went against the status quo of my community. It took years and therapy for me to let go of my shame. 

How does this apply to our classrooms, you may ask. Our classrooms themselves will develop a culture. If you encourage your students to communicate with each other, they will be more and more likely to keep that status quo, even when you don't ask them to. Students who don't feel as outgoing, or who struggle with talking with others, might find being in the classroom difficult, if that is the culture of our classroom. It is important to validate each students' emotions, though. One idea I have used in helping my students is to allow them to prove their understanding in a way that feel comfortable for them. I had some students who really preferred a written exam. Others wanted to do an oral report. Others wrote papers. This helped students to feel comfortable in the classroom, while still proving they are learning what is needed. 

How could you make sure that the culture in your classroom is inclusive? How can you help students who feel less comfortable in the classroom?