Controversies : Cultural Bias

Question 1

What are cross cultural studies?

Answer 1

A kind of natural experiment to see whether cultural practices affect behaviour.

Question 2

What are the advantages of cross cultural studies?

Answer 2

Enable us to consider if behaviours are innate and a part of our genetic make up.

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of cross cultural studies?

Answer 3

• Western researchers conducting research in a different culture may fail to understand local practices and meanings. This could cause them to misrepresent participants understanding.
• Tests and procedures are likely to have been developed in a western country and are not valid in other cultures.