collectivist culture & capitalism: same message, different worlds
In our ever-evolving world, the intersection of culture and economics plays a pivotal role in shaping our lives and mental well-being. As a trauma therapist, I've often found myself pondering the striking similarities between collectivist culture and capitalism and how these two seemingly contrasting forces can significantly impact mental health.
Both collectivist cultures and capitalism place a significant emphasis on the pursuit of success. In collectivist societies, success is often defined by one's contribution to the group or family, while capitalism focuses on individual success often measured through financial and material gain. This relentless pursuit of success can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Striking a balance between personal goals and societal expectations can be a complex challenge. Many individuals who come from a collectivist family or identify as first or second-generation carry a unique and heavy burden of achieving success.
Collectivist cultures and capitalism both exert pressure on individuals to conform to certain standards. In collectivist cultures, this may manifest as conforming to traditional values and societal norms by honoring your family or the expectation to sacrifice yourself for the greater good, while capitalism's pressure can be felt in the need to adhere to market-driven values, consumerism, or fulfilling the goals of a corporation or job. The mixture of these cultural pressures can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression when individuals are unable to meet these expectations.
Both collectivist cultures and capitalism involve elements of competition and cooperation. In collectivist societies, competition may take the form of striving to be the most dutiful family member, while capitalism fosters competition in business and personal success. These competitive pressures can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and rivalry, impacting mental well-being. If you come from a collectivist family, notice how often you associate your worth with how much you can contribute to your family or to your job. How often does the thought “Am I doing enough?” or “Am I selfish for wanting ____?” come across your mind?
Lastly, capitalism often equates success with material wealth, leading individuals to pursue materialistic goals. Collectivist cultures, on the other hand, value relationships and social connections as sources of happiness. However, what I’ve seen working with families or those who are first or second-generation is an immense pressure to financially provide for their families adding a layer of complexity that success is defined by material markers. Some people may be their parent’s only retirement plan. It is crucial to recognize that the pursuit of material wealth can sometimes come at the expense of mental well-being, as it may lead to feelings of emptiness, loneliness, and dissatisfaction.
The similarities between collectivist cultures and capitalism are more profound than one might initially think, and they both carry significant implications for mental health. As a trauma therapist, it's important to acknowledge these societal influences and work with individuals to find a balance that aligns with their values and fosters their mental well-being. In both cultures, rest is a reward, a luxury for those at the top of the chain. But when one resists rest or even neglects one culture for the other can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection. Finding a harmonious coexistence between the two is essential for overall well-being. As Audrey Lorde once said, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” Burning out and neglecting our physical and mental health does not deserve a badge of honor as both cultures may want us to believe. Rest and care are essential ingredients to our life. The key lies in self-awareness, embracing one's cultural background, and understanding the impact of the economic system while striving to find a personal path that honors both collective and individual needs. As we continue to navigate this intricate dance between collectivism and capitalism, it's essential to remember that mental health is a shared responsibility, involving not only individuals but also society at large.
- Adrianna
