What is it about?
We found evidence that some American psychologists believe culture matters more for racial/ethnic minorities than it does for Whites. In reality, culture is important for all human beings.
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Why is it important?
Psychologists might fail to see racial/ethnic minorities as unique individuals and only perceive them as members of a group. They might fail to see how Whites are influenced by their group and culture, and see them mostly as individuals. This can lead to inadequate theory, training, practice, and interventions.
Perspectives
In part, this study is informed by my experiences as an immigrant in the United States. Before I moved here in 2009 to pursue a PhD, my behavior in my home country (Panama) was often interpreted based on my personality and individual characteristics. If I was late, my friends would often tell me it was because I was selfish or irresponsible. But when I moved to the United States, I noticed my behavior was often interpreted based on my membership to a racial/ethnic minority group. If I was late, my friends would often tell me it was because I am a Latino and the stereotype is that we are often late. This study sheds light on this problem. I hope this article makes American psychologists think that we are all, at the same time, members of a racial/ethnic group and unique individuals.
José M. Causadias
Arizona State University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Do we overemphasize the role of culture in the behavior of racial/ethnic minorities? Evidence of a cultural (mis)attribution bias in American psychology., American Psychologist, April 2018, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/amp0000099.
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