When in Rome: The Story of Adapting to Global Norms
Imagine you’re walking through the bustling streets of Jakarta. The vibrant city life is all around you, but so is something else — litter. It’s a common sight in many parts of Indonesia, where public awareness and infrastructure for waste management are still developing. Now, picture an Indonesian traveler, let’s call her Wati, stepping off the plane in Singapore. She’s immediately struck by the cleanliness. Here, littering is not just frowned upon; it’s illegal, with hefty fines attached. Wati adapts quickly, making sure her trash always finds its way to a bin. This isn’t just Wati’s story; it’s a narrative shared by many who find themselves more disciplined abroad than at home.
Understanding the Shift
Why does this happen? It’s a question that takes us deep into the human psyche and the social structures that guide our behavior. Social psychologists point to situational compliance and social conformity as key drivers behind this phenomenon. In unfamiliar settings, especially those with different expectations and rules, we’re wired to adapt for self-preservation and social acceptance.
“Individuals adjust their behavior based on the context and perceived norms of the environment they are in,” explains Dr. Jane Goodall *, a social psychologist (and also a renowned primatologist and…
