Choosing My Own Path While Carrying My Family’s Values

One of the biggest things I have learned from cultural psychology is that many of the beliefs and values we have are influenced by culture before we even realize it. The way we think about success, family, relationships, and our future is often shaped by the environments we grow up in. Reflecting on my own experiences, I can see how my identity has been influenced by a combination of independence and family connection.

A major concept in cultural psychology is the difference between independent and interdependent views of the self. In more individualistic cultures, people are often encouraged to focus on personal goals, independence, and creating their own path. In more collectivistic cultures, identity is often connected more strongly to family, community, and relationships with others. Although cultures cannot be perfectly placed into one category, these concepts helped me understand the different influences that have shaped my own life.

Growing up in Canada, I was surrounded by many individualistic values. From a young age, there was an emphasis on figuring out what I wanted for myself, choosing my own career, and becoming independent. Going away to university was part of this experience because it involved leaving home, making my own decisions, and building my own identity separate from my family.

However, my family has also played a huge role in shaping who I am. Through my Jamaican background and my upbringing in a close family, I learned the importance of staying connected, supporting the people around me, and valuing family relationships. Even as I become more independent, my family’s opinions, experiences, and sacrifices still influence the choices I make.

I think this balance between independence and connection is interesting because I do not see myself as only one or the other. I value having my own goals and creating my own future, but I also recognize that my identity is connected to the people who raised me and supported me. My achievements are not just individual accomplishments because they are also connected to the opportunities, lessons, and encouragement my family has given me.

This also connects to the idea of cultural scripts. Different cultures create expectations for what a “successful” life looks like. Ideas about education, careers, relationships, and family responsibilities are all influenced by the values we grow up around. Sometimes we believe we are making completely independent decisions, but those decisions are still influenced by the cultural messages we have received throughout our lives.

Learning about cultural psychology has helped me understand that my values come from multiple cultural influences. My desire to be independent and follow my own path exists alongside my appreciation for family and connection. Instead of seeing these values as opposites, I see them as different parts of my identity that work together. My culture is not only where I come from, but also the values and relationships that continue to guide me.