Question

Which of the following statements about cross-cultural comparisons of emotional experience is not true? A. The facial expressions that accompany specific emotions are fairly similar across cultures B. The cognitive appraisals that shape emotions tend to be similar across cultures. C. People of different cultures tend to categorize emotions somewhat differently D. Display rules do not vary from one culture to another.

Short answer

A) The facial expressions that accompany specific emotions are fairly similar across cultures B) The cognitive appraisals that shape emotions tend to be similar across cultures C) People of different cultures tend to categorize emotions somewhat differently D) Display rules do not vary from one culture to another Answer: D) Display rules do not vary from one culture to another.

Step-by-step solution

Analyzing Statement A

The facial expressions that accompany specific emotions are fairly similar across cultures. This statement is considered true, as research has shown that there are universal facial expressions that convey the basic emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust, which are recognized across different cultures.

Analyzing Statement B

The cognitive appraisals that shape emotions tend to be similar across cultures. This statement is also considered true, as cognitive appraisals, which are the subjective interpretations and evaluations of events that determine emotions, are found to be consistent across cultures in connection with the experience of certain basic emotions.

Analyzing Statement C

People of different cultures tend to categorize emotions somewhat differently. This statement is true. Although there are universal aspects of emotions, different cultures may categorize them differently based on the culturally-specific terminology, values, or experiences, leading to some variations in the way emotions are understood and labeled.

Analyzing Statement D

Display rules do not vary from one culture to another. This statement is false. Display rules are the culturally determined norms about when, how, and to what extent it is appropriate to express emotions. These rules vary significantly across cultures, as some cultures promote emotional expression while others encourage emotional restraint.

Identifying the False Statement

Based on the analysis of each statement, we can conclude that Statement D - "Display rules do not vary from one culture to another" - is the statement that is not true about cross-cultural comparisons of emotional experiences. Display rules indeed vary between different cultures, shaping the ways in which people express their emotions and adhere to cultural norms.

Key concepts

Emotion

Emotions are complex and multi-dimensional feelings or responses that are triggered by specific stimuli. They are universal and can be experienced by everyone, no matter their cultural background.

Emotions can include sadness, happiness, fear, anger, surprise, and disgust. Although these basic emotions are universally recognized, how people experience, express, and manage these emotions can vary across different cultures.

Each culture brings its own set of beliefs, values, and social norms, which can shape the way emotions are perceived and expressed. Thus, while the core emotions might be the same globally, the interpretation and reaction to these emotions can be significantly different depending on cultural context.

Facial Expressions

Facial expressions are a form of nonverbal communication that can convey an individual's emotions without the need for words.

Research suggests that certain facial expressions are linked to specific emotions and are recognized similarly across various cultures. This includes expressions for happiness, such as smiling, or expressions of sadness, like frowning.

This universality suggests that facial expressions are biologically ingrained and not merely a product of cultural learning—a concept first highlighted in the research of Charles Darwin and later expanded by Paul Ekman.

However, while the basic set of expressions is universal, cultural nuances can influence the intensity or subtleties of these expressions.

Cognitive Appraisals

Cognitive appraisals are the mental processes we use to judge and interpret events, determining the emotions we will experience.

When we encounter a certain situation, our brain appraises the event based on our past experiences, beliefs, and perceptions, which then influences our emotional response.

Interestingly, research shows that such appraisals can be quite similar across cultures, as people generally assess events as pleasant or threatening based on human survival instincts.

Despite these commonalities, cultural factors can affect how individuals interpret situations. For example, a gesture considered respectful in one culture might be perceived differently in another, leading to different emotional reactions.

Display Rules

Display rules refer to the cultural norms that dictate how and when emotions should be expressed.

These rules vary greatly between cultures and are learned through socialization, affecting the outward expression of emotions.

For instance, in some cultures, expressing emotions such as sadness and anger openly might be encouraged, while in others, it could be seen as inappropriate.

Understanding and adhering to display rules is important for navigating social interactions within different cultural contexts, as inappropriate expressions can lead to misunderstandings or social isolation.

Because these rules are so deeply embedded in cultural practices, they play a crucial role in shaping both personal and social identity.