Growing up in a world that is home to multiple languages, values, and traditions, children often find themselves navigating cultural barriers that influence their development. Differences in parenting styles and changing societal expectations make this process even more challenging for children in multicultural family settings or communities. They need to balance their internal conflict with how the environment expects them to act, all while forming their own identity.

Consequently, they may feel “different” at school or stuck between two sets of expectations. For example, children who are taught to exhibit unconditional respect for authority figures may feel confused in a classroom setting where teachers encourage open debate and independent thinking. Not all children respond to these challenges in the same manner, as some can adjust at a quicker pace and develop an unparalleled sense of belonging. This discrepancy gives rise to another question: Why do some children adapt smoothly to cultural barriers while others struggle?

Three main reasons come to the forefront; namely, family support, personal traits, and community environment.

Families play a vital role in forming the foundation of a child’s values, beliefs, and early behaviors. Additionally, parental perspectives towards culture are influenced by family customs and norms. With intercultural parenting, parents who acknowledge both cultures – their own and the one their child is growing up in – help children feel proud instead of conflicted. Openly discussing these differences together may develop self-awareness for parents and a space for children to foster curiosity and understanding about their own culture.

Children tend to cope better with cultural barriers when their families promote a strong sense of security and open communication. Interaction with peers, communities, and cultures different from their own can allow children to have new notions and experiences. This process can get confusing if children are never taught about values like diversity, equality, and harmony at home. Fostering respect for........

© Psychology Today