Chinese and American Cultural Differences

Chinese and American Cultural Differences There are many differences in eastern and western culture. Eastern and western cultures have different views on the way an individual views him or herself. The types of friendships and relationships individuals have with others. Family life including how many children each culture has. How each culture views oneself and differ will be examined. Americans are taught from a young age to be individualists. American individuals are often celebrating his or her personal accomplishments and success even in team sports. Chinese individuals are taught the exact opposite. More emphasize is placed on the collective group rather than the individual. Chinese individuals think about how their specific actions will affect the group. If for any reason the action will affect anyone negatively the action will not be completed. Americans into adulthood want to be entrepreneurs, leaders, and a person with many accolades. Chinese culture is more modest. Children are taught that he or she has to be the best involving academics. More emphases is on learning rather than sports or entertainment. In American culture praise is given more often to children than in Chinese culture.

Both cultures place a high value on relationships. The Chinese culture an individual has few friends. The relationship lasts a lifetime. The friendship is similar to a marriage. If an individual needed anything if the friend can provide he or she will. In American culture an individual has many friends. The relationships are usually not as close as Chinese culture but can be. These relationships can last a lifetime but may alter throughout an individual’s life. It is not surprising for an American to end a friendship. In American culture the more friendships he or she has could make an individual more popular and could be considered a status symbol. In American culture even acquaintances are considered friends. Communication exists through