Cross-Cultural Differences in Emotional Expression

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Emotions serve as fundamental components of human experience, influencing behavior, social interactions, and cognitive processes. However, the expression and interpretation of emotions are not universally consistent; rather, these processes are deeply embedded within cultural contexts that shape how individuals experience and convey their feelings (Chiu & Hong, 2006; Li et al., 2025). Cross-cultural psychology, which examines the influence of culture on psychological processes, reveals that emotional expression varies significantly across cultural groups (Matsumoto & Hwang, 2012). Specifically, cultural dimensions such as individualism versus collectivism, communication styles, and social norms can profoundly affect the manifestation of emotional expressions. Understanding these cross-cultural differences in emotional expression is crucial for fostering effective interpersonal communication, enhancing emotional intelligence, and promoting mental well-being in an increasingly globalized world.

Cultural Dimensions and Emotional Expression

One of the most significant frameworks for understanding cross-cultural differences in emotional expression is the individualism-collectivism dimension proposed by Hofstede (1980). Individualistic cultures, often characterized by a focus on personal autonomy and self-assertion, tend to prioritize the…