Savonia-article: Cultural Diversity can be considered through 6 dimensions of the national culture
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This article continues the series of Publications describing the Erasmus+ Global project with Savonia and of Instituto Superior de Ciências de Saúde (ISCISA). Teachers of Savonia and ISCISA had the opportunity to work together for two weeks in Maputo. The program included familiarization with the fields of radiology, as well as mental health and substance abuse nursing. We gathered information and changed experiences in these areas to support students and teachers preparing for exchanges, and as in this article we also considered the significance of cultural dimensions that means diversity in both Finland and Mozambique in practical terms.
Geert Hofstede has defined six cultural dimensions that describe the average value system of each country. It is intended as a tool to help consider and understand the diversity or different behaviors and approaches of people. Of course, it is important to understand that each person is an individual, and not everyone represents the same thinking- and behavioural patterns, because everyone has their own life history and experiences. But this index of each dimension in this tool which provides a rough framework and represents an average values of people of the country. Let´s take a closer look at two dimensions: “Long Term Orientation” and “Individualism”.
Long-term orientation
If we compare this dimension with a country comparison tool between Finland and Mozambique, Finland scores 65 and Mozambique 11. That means Finland to be a pragmatic culture and oriented toward the long term. The fundamental view is that the world is constantly changing, so ongoing preparation for the future is essential. Finnish people are always prepared for the future – they plan ahead for their careers, retirements, funerals and even their children’s lives, purchase insurances, budget beforehand for expenses, save for a rainy day and acquire property.
An extremely low score on this dimension means that Mozambique has a normative culture. People in such societies have a strong concern with establishing the absolute truth. They exhibit great respect for traditions, a relatively small propensity to prepare for the future, and a focus on achieving quick results. In many countries that have experienced natural disasters, wars, and uncertain times, people tend to live more in the present moment because there is no guarantee for tomorrow. This cultural and social behavior is directly related to poverty, which is the biggest challenge in Mozambique. Many families struggle to meet basic needs such as food and housing, even those with formal employment.
Individualism
Individualism is the extent to which people feel independent, as opposed to being interdependent as members of larger wholes. It means that individual choices and decisions are expected, and individuals bears sole responsibility for their own actions. Finland with a high score of 75 is an individualistic society that means there is a high preference for a loosely knit social framework in which individuals are expected to take care of themselves and their immediate small families only. Usually, the need for personal space and distance is significant that can be shown in interaction as a reserved manner, with arm’s length being a good distance. In health care services, individuality can manifest as patient-centered care. The patient participates in decision-making on their treatment, knows their rights, and chooses the type of care they want.
With a low score Mozambique is considered a collectivistic society. This is evident in a close, long-term commitment to the member ‘group’, that can be a family, extended family, or extended relationships. In collectivist culture, loyalty is fundamental and collectivistic societies emphasize strong bonds among members, where each person feels a sense of responsibility toward others within their group. Collectivism also implies that one’s role in life is socially determined, with an understanding of one’s place and duties shaped by the larger community context. Most countries and 70% of the people in the world are collectivist. Almost all African coutries, they live linear collectivism of birth, neighborhood, friendship and also professional. In the coexistence environments, individuals live positively, strengthen ties and keep culture alive.
Discussion
This two-week visit included many rapidly changing plans and situations. After the election, the political situation in society is unstable, with strikes and protests being organized. This challenged the Finnish teachers’ long time orientation and also helped in understanding the significance of living in the moment, never know what´s going to happen next day. The team of teachers at Iscisa is collective and warm-hearted. It is easy to feel welcome.
According to Hofstede, the defined cultural dimensions provide a tool for considering cultural differences or provoking thoughts. However, it is important to remember that culture is not static but is constantly changing, hope this tool will be refreshed over time. And each of us wants to be seen and recognized as an individual, unique person, not just as a representative of our culture.
Authors:
Sanna Heiskanen, Senior Lecturer, MSc, RN. Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Department of Health care, sanna.heiskanen@savonia.fi
Kaija Laitinen, Senior Lecturer, MSc, HMS. Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Department of Health care, kaija.laitinen@savonia.fi
Leonel Monjane, Senior Lecturer, MSs, BT. Instituto Superior de Ciências de Saúde, Area das Ciências de Diagnóstico, leonelfidalgomonjane@gmail.com
References:
Geert Hofstede. n.d. The 6-D model of national culture. Website. Accessed October 30, 2024 https://geerthofstede.com/culture-geert-hofstede-gert-jan-hofstede/6d-model-of-national-culture/
The Culture Factor Group. n.d. Country comparison tool. Website. Accessed October 30, 2024 https://www.theculturefactor.com/country-comparison-tool