ABSTRACT
The variables that differentiate self from others cause us to highlight and downplay certain elements of our world. Biological sex is not the same thing as gender, yet both affect how we see conflict. The cultures that have influenced us, including where we were raised, the religious traditions we practiced, and the values instilled in us, play out in our reactions to conflict. Furthermore, the generational influences we have experienced may make us prioritize different values and create expectations different from those who lived through another historical era. Cultural socialization theories explain how individuals learn from their surroundings and how those lessons play out in personal conflict. Individuals from collectivist cultures may value community over the individual, whereas individualist cultures may place importance on self-reliance and personal achievement. This chapter examines race and ethnicity as influences on our behaviors, as well as the effect unearned privilege has on our choices during conflict. Recognizing the effect of stereotyping and making assumptions about others is explored. The chapter concludes with an examination of the role of empirical research in conflict studies.
