Unit 3: Who We Are

Module 08: Culture & Self

Module 09: Identity

We Me, Public domain image

Description: This unit explores how culture shapes personal and social identity. We examine how different cultures influence self-concept, personal identity, and social roles. Through understanding these influences, we gain insight into how cultural contexts shape who people become and how they understand themselves.

 Unit Learning Objectives: By the end of this unit students will be able to…

• ULO1: Examine how they define their self. (CLO2, CLO4)
• ULO2: Differentiate the independent self from the interdependent self. (CLO1)
• ULO3: Assess the role culture plays in defining gender. (CLO2, CLO4)
• ULO4: Compare the roles they play with the roles other people play. (CLO3, CLO4)

 Why This Unit Is Important: Understanding how culture shapes identity is crucial for working with diverse populations. Mental health professionals use this knowledge to understand their clients’ self-concepts. Human resource managers apply these insights to build inclusive workplaces. Educators use this understanding to support students from different cultural backgrounds, while marketing professionals apply it to create culturally resonant messaging. This knowledge helps you recognize how cultural contexts influence people’s fundamental understanding of themselves and their roles in society.