One of the most counterintuitive truths about cross-cultural psychology: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Cross-Cultural Psychology Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of cross-cultural psychology
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking cross-cultural psychology is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging cross-cultural psychology without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing cross-cultural psychology to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for cross-cultural psychology while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Cross-Cultural Psychology
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting cross-cultural psychology, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Cross-Cultural Psychology
Many people find that when they stop fighting cross-cultural psychology and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of cross-cultural psychology is partly the struggle against it.