Final answer:
There are notable distinctions between the lives of boys in Africa compared to the United States, with Africa focusing on community and tradition, and the U.S. emphasizing individualism and technological advancement. The Lost Boys of Sudan faced challenges like language barriers and adapting to a different society, while holding values such as resilience and community. They have adapted to the U.S. while maintaining their cultural identity, influenced by various factors, observed through cultural markers in videos.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are significant differences in the lives of boys between Africa and the United States. In Africa, many boys may grow up in tight-knit communities with strong cultural traditions, possibly involved in subsistence farming, with less access to technological advancements or resources prevalent in the U.S. They often learn to value community bonds, collective responsibilities, and respect for elders as intrinsic cultural norms. In contrast, American boys are more likely to grow up in a society that values individualism, has access to advanced education and technology, and where cultural practices are varied and diverse.
The Lost Boys of Sudan faced numerous challenges in assimilating to American culture, including language barriers, different social norms, and the complexity of American systems such as banking, employment, and the educational system. The transition from a collective society to one that prizes individualism and self-sufficiency was a significant adjustment, requiring the Lost Boys to learn new ways of interaction and independence to assimilate effectively.
Values of the Lost Boys include resilience, determination, and a strong sense of community. An example from the videos is their persistent efforts in supporting each other while adapting to life in the United States. They often congregated to discuss their experiences and offered mutual assistance, embodying their collectivist upbringing despite the shift toward an individualistic society.
The Lost Boys have adapted to living in the United States through education and employment, with many striving to maintain their cultural identity while also assimilating into American culture. Factors influencing their assimilation and acculturation include their individual willingness to adapt, the support systems available to them, and the level of community receptivity they encountered.
American culture is often identified through markers such as a focus on individual success, technological reliance, and diverse cultural expressions. Dinka culture, from which many of the Lost Boys come, is characterized by traditional practices, strong community bonds, and a pastoral lifestyle. These markers were evident in the videos by observing the boys' interactions, attire, and the way they communicated with each other and with Americans.