There are significant major values that have remained dominant and persistent within the American culture. These specific major values have remained persistent and dominant in the culture of the Americans because they are passed from one generation to another. Two of these values are time-consciousness and individuality.
The value of individuality is quite dear and common among the American people (Campbell & Kean, 2016). A lot of people feel that it is a duty of each person to b independent. Therefore, youths are taught the significance of striving to be self-sufficient. People are encouraged to develop their unique goals in life and work towards achieving these goals. Individuality is the main value that informs the rating of success in this country. Americans respect individuals who have achieved accolades and acclamation through their achievements (Weaver, 2004). These achievements may be economic, political or social. The ones who depend on others like friends and parents for survival are disrespected in the American society.
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There is also the value of time-consciousness. It is in this American culture that people like by the maxim ‘time is money’ (Weaver, 1997). The American culture views time as a major determinant of one’s monetary wealth. Therefore, the way a person spends time determines their level of wealth creation. It is the reason most Americans attend meetings right on schedule. They detest lateness and revere punctuality. Lateness is a huge mistake within the America and is worth losing an employment position or a business deal.
How these values influenced my socialization
All through my life, I have come to recognize the significance of these two values. Since I started attending school, I was conditioned to understand that time is an essential and scarce commodity on earth. Therefore, my teachers always emphasized the need to attend classes early or on time. Moreover, a lot of my friends used to obey time punctuality when attending organized social events and doing group work assignments and projects. This trend enabled me to be a time-conscious person right from the time I was a child. Time-consciousness has greatly influenced my bond with friends. I have managed to keep friendships because of the high level of obedience I have to time schedules.
It is important to note that the value of individuality has also influenced me to remain focused on my goals and start person al achievements while still a child. This development meant that my relationship with friends and relatives remained healthy because I have never been a bother to them. I have learnt to be contended with what my parents provide for me and not to compromise my social relationships with others.
Influence in adulthood
Friendships are strong and lasting when they are among people who are responsible and not dependent on others. The value of individuality has influenced me to always keep my family members and workmates out of my personal needs. I work to meet my needs and this helps grow the strength of my social friendships and relationships. Furthermore, my time-consciousness has influenced helped enhanced my social friendships because of the habit of fulfilling promises and obligations within agreed time periods.
References
Campbell, N., & Kean, A. (2016). American cultural studies: an introduction to American culture . Routledge.
Weaver, G.R. (1997). American Cultural Values. Kokusai Bunka Kenshu , Vol. 14, pp. 14-20.
Weaver, G. R. (2004). Ethics and employees: Making the connection. The Academy of Management Executive , 18 (2), 121-125.
