National Evaluation Series (NES) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Test

Which of the following is an example of an affective culture?

1. England

2. Japan

3. Norway

4. The United States

The correct answer is: The United States

The United States is categorized as an example of an affective culture due to its expressive communication style and emphasis on open emotional expression. In affective cultures, individuals are more likely to express their feelings and emotions directly, placing value on personal relationships and emotional connections in interactions. This is often observed in American communication, where individuals tend to share their thoughts and feelings candidly, and emotional experiences are considered important in social and professional settings. In contrast, other cultures listed, such as Japan and Norway, are often characterized as cognitive or neutral cultures, where emotional expression may be more restrained. In these contexts, individuals might prioritize politeness and indirect communication, reflecting a different cultural approach to emotional expression and interpersonal relationships. Thus, the United States stands out as an illustration of an affective culture, where openness in expressing emotions is more prevalent.