Final answer:
Cultural differences in the expression of emotion are governed by display rules, which are norms that dictate the proper way to express emotions in different cultural contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Although researchers have found that basic emotions and their expression seem to be culturally universal, there are cultural differences in how, when, and where people express emotion. These differences are governed by display rules. Display rules are social norms that dictate the appropriate expressions of emotion in various cultural contexts. They guide individuals on how to manage their emotions based on social and cultural expectations.
Such rules can include controlling the intensity of an emotion, modifying our facial expressions, or deciding when it is appropriate to show certain emotions. Paul Ekman's work with a New Guinea man, living in an isolated preliterate culture, showed that while there are universal facial expressions corresponding to emotions, the way they are expressed can still be affected by cultural norms. In addition to facial expressions, tone of voice and body language are also important social signals that communicate our emotional states.
Cultural display rules can vary greatly from one culture to another, affecting not only expressions but also the perception and interpretation of those emotions by others within the culture. For example, in some cultures, it may be acceptable to show emotions openly, while in others, it might be considered inappropriate.