Our behaviors are indeed influenced by society because we are integral parts of the societies in which we live.

Our behaviors are indeed influenced by society because we are integral parts of the societies in which we live. If we explore this concept further, from the moment we are born, we are socialized into the norms, values, and behaviors of our society, this process begins in our families and extends to educational institutions, peer groups, and other social institutions. We learn how to interact with others, what is considered acceptable or taboo, and what our roles are within the community. Society establishes cultural norms, which are the shared expectations and behaviors considered appropriate within a particular group. These norms guide our daily actions and decisions, from how we dress and eat to how we express emotions and interact with others.

However, we often conform to societal expectations and norms to fit in and avoid social disapproval. We might dress a certain way or follow specific etiquette rules to be accepted by our peers and society at large. Society imparts its values, which are the fundamental beliefs about what is important and desirable, to its members. These values influence our choices and priorities. In some cultures, individualism is highly valued, while in others, collectivism and community welfare are emphasized. Society also assigns roles and responsibilities based on factors such as gender, age, and social status. These role expectations shape our behavior and influence our life choices. For instance, societal expectations regarding the roles of men and women have evolved over time, impacting family and work dynamics.

Society is not static; it evolves over time. Changes in norms, beliefs, and values can lead to shifts in individual behavior. As society progresses, individuals may challenge existing norms and work toward change. Different societies and cultures have unique norms and values. People living in multicultural societies may navigate between various cultural influences, resulting in diverse behaviors and perspectives.

Taiwanese society and cultural psychology exhibit a complex interplay between independence and interdependence, reflecting the influence of both traditional Confucian values and modernization. Traditional Confucian values have deeply influenced Taiwanese society. Confucianism emphasizes the importance of hierarchical relationships, respect for authority, and duty to family and community. These values foster strong interdependence among family members and within social networks. Building and maintaining relationships is crucial in Taiwanese society, especially building trust and rapport with others is often a priority.

Taiwan also has rapidly modernized over the past few decades, leading to changes in societal values. With increased exposure to Western cultures and values, there has been a growing emphasis on individualism and personal expression, especially among the younger generation. Taiwanese society places a strong emphasis on education and individual success. Many young people pursue higher education and careers, which can promote a sense of independence and personal achievement. Economic factors also play a role. As Taiwan's economy has developed, there has been a shift from a more agrarian and collectivist society to one that values personal financial independence and entrepreneurship. In addition, gender roles have been evolving as well, with more women pursuing careers and seeking independence from traditional roles. However, there is still a degree of traditional gender expectations in Taiwanese society.

The relationship between independence and interdependence in Taiwanese society is characterized by a delicate balance, influenced by both traditional and modern factors. Taiwanese society is marked by the coexistence of independence and interdependence. Both concepts are important and have their place in the cultural fabric. Traditional Confucian values continue to have a significant influence on Taiwanese society. Confucianism places a strong emphasis on interdependence, filial piety, and maintaining harmonious relationships within the family and the broader community. In Taiwanese families, there is a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards one's parents and extended family members. Children are expected to support their parents in various ways, and family decisions are often made collectively.

I did not encounter the stigma attached to mental disorders or unusual behavior. But, one of my friend did. So, here is an example of my friend using a fabricate name, Sarah. Here is the story:

Sarah, a 28-year-old woman, had been struggling with depression for several years. She decided to seek help and began attending therapy sessions to address her mental health concerns. Despite taking this brave step, she encountered stigma from various sources. Sarah decided to confide in her close friends and family about her therapy sessions. While some were supportive and understanding, others were less empathetic. She overheard her cousin making comments about how "therapy is for crazy people" and was told by a friend to "snap out of it." These reactions made her feel isolated and reluctant to open up to them further. Sarah worked in a competitive corporate environment, and she was worried about her coworkers discovering her mental health struggles. When she requested time off for therapy sessions, her supervisor was unsympathetic, suggesting that she should be able to "handle her problems on her own." Sarah felt that discussing her mental health openly at work would negatively impact her professional reputation.

Sarah decided to share her experiences with depression on social media to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. While some friends were supportive, she received hurtful comments and messages from acquaintances, including remarks like "attention-seeker" and "just looking for sympathy." The online backlash further exacerbated her feelings of vulnerability. Sarah also had to deal with some judgment within the healthcare system. During one emergency room visit for a panic attack, she felt that the medical staff treated her dismissively and suggested that she was overreacting, even though she was genuinely struggling.

These experiences of stigma made Sarah's journey towards healing more challenging. The negative reactions from family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers reinforced the societal stereotypes and misconceptions about mental health. Such stigma often deters individuals from seeking the help they need, and it can significantly hinder their recovery process. Breaking down these stereotypes and fostering a more supportive and understanding environment for those with mental disorders is crucial to reducing the stigma associated with such conditions.

In the example of Sarah experiencing stigma attached to her mental disorder, several steps were taken to address the situation. She decided to educate herself about mental health and share her experiences openly on social media. By doing so, she aimed to reduce the stigma around mental health issues and promote understanding among her friends, acquaintances, and online followers. Her posts included information about the prevalence of mental disorders and the importance of seeking help.

Sarah's therapist played a crucial role in helping her cope with the stigma she encountered. In therapy, she discussed strategies for dealing with negative comments and judgments, as well as building resilience and self-compassion. Her therapist also encouraged her to assert her boundaries with unsupportive individuals. Sarah made an effort to surround herself with a more supportive and understanding network of friends and family. She leaned on those who were empathetic and willing to learn about her experiences. She distanced herself from individuals who continued to stigmatize her condition.

With effective treatment, Sarah not only addressed the stigma attached to her mental disorder but also empowered herself to navigate her mental health journey more effectively. It's important to note that addressing stigma can be an ongoing process, and individuals like Sarah may need to employ a combination of strategies to manage it effectively. Additionally, societal attitudes toward mental health can evolve with time, making it easier for individuals to seek help and support.

Reference

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