Cultural Differences Between Japanese And The United States

The cultural differences between Japan and the United States are exemplified in the differences in the parenting styles and the educational systems in the two countries. Research indicates that parenting styles in Japan and the United States both focus on the quality of parenting which is more essential than the quantity spent with the child. Much of the research shows that children go through different stages in life, therefore parents create their own parenting styles from a combination of factors that evolve over time as children begin to develop their own sense of identity. In addition, the educational systems in Japan and the United States differ in many ways such as education in the United States is provided mainly by the government.
Developmental issues can be illuminated by comparing childrearing in Japan and the United States because both countries have similar systems, but have different practices. The mother-child relationship within the Japanese culture is expected to be where parents are to be attentive to the infant’s basic needs. Basically, Japanese mothers are expected to be committed to their roles, even if they have other social roles such as wife, or employee (Fogel, Messinger, and Stevenson). In American homes, the mother is expected to socialize the child with others and have them be emotionally independent even if the child disapproves. While Japanese mothers need to be committed to their role, American mothers are expected to balance all their roles (Fogel, Messinger, and Stevenson). The cultural differences in the parent-child relationship show that in the Japanese culture the beginning of life for a child is a period when the role of the mother is of a higher value. The mother is expected to teach their child the values, morals, and social norms as they develop while in the American culture a child is guided through the social structure, but at the same time is expected to be independent. These factors effect development in both cultures because in the Japan mothers are committed to being which helps the child development where they feel nurture, love, and care. In this case, the language, social, and moral norms are more quickly developed because Japanese mothers have a stronger connection than American mothers do. The information may seem a bit harsh which puts American culture in a bad position, but in America there is maternity leave that a only a short time period during this time they can grow their relationship with their child, but when a mother goes back to work that bond won’t be the same. The child will be exposed to others values, and