Towards a Psychology of Cultural Globalisation: A Sense of Self in a Changing World

Abstract

Cultural interconnectivity motivated by globalisation has transformed societies and interpersonal interactions around the world. Furthermore, on a psychological level, individuals are intensely influenced by the new contextual complexity challenging the processes of developing a sense of belonging and a sense of self. This article discusses and integrates relevant psychological theories for approaching the psychological study of cultural globalisation. This integration is done by pragmatically drawing from various psychological theories concerning cultural interaction and psychological development, specifically globalisation-based acculturation, biculturalism, dialogical self and identity theories. Two general reactions towards cultural globalisation are identified as exclusionary and integrative ways of either accepting or rejecting new cultural influences. In addition to the adaptation to cultural globalisation, an individual’s sense of self and belonging is developed through levels of cultural, social and personal identities. Furthermore, locally embedded identity challenges related to these general reaction patterns towards cultural globalisation could emerge as identity confusion and extremism. The article argues that the psychological study of cultural globalisation is an integral emerging field of research, which is appropriately developed through an integration of acculturation and identity research.