Final answer:
SDT examines the influence of culture on motivation and varies across societies, with cultural universals experienced differently by each culture. Cultural differences in perception and social interaction are pronounced between collectivistic and individualistic cultures, while globalization fosters both cultural convergence and divergence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Self-Determination Theory (SDT) studies how cultural differences impact human motivation and behavior. Across various cultures, SDT principles can vary greatly, providing insight into the cultural influences on autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Cultural universals, such as family structures, are present in all societies but exhibit significant variation in definition and function across cultures. For example, family units in Asian communities often include multiple generations under one roof, while Western societies usually emphasize nuclear family living arrangements.
Cultural perspectives can also greatly influence how individuals interact with the environment and interpret social cues. Research by Masuda and Nisbett shows that people from collectivistic cultures, like Japan, are more context-sensitive, whereas individuals from individualistic cultures, such as the U.S., may be less affected by context in certain situations. This knowledge can help address ethnocentrism, allowing individuals to approach other cultures without imposing personal cultural values, and to critically evaluate different socio-cultural systems through a sociological lens.
Globalization has led to increased interaction between cultures leading to potential cultural convergence. However, despite these interactions, distinct cultural differences and diversities remain, reflecting various societal norms and attitudes towards life transitions, work, and social interaction.