Question

How does an individualistic vs collectivist society impact perspectives in cosleeping?

Answer 1

Views of collectivistic societies on cosleeping:

Collectivistic cultures are mostly seen in Asia. Collectivistic societies have strong societal norms that bound the individual. An individual's identity is formed by the society they belong to. Thus, if cosleeping or premarital sex is the part of the culture, anyone not abiding by it would be othered. However, most of the collectivistic cultures are in opposition to cosleeping. Thus, it marked with shame for the individuals who do it. Moreover, such individuals are also treated differently by the members of the society, family, relatives, and friends, etc.

Views of individualistic culture on cosleeping:

Individualistic cultures, which are usually western cultures, tend to place primordial importance of the independence and the freedom of an individual in comparison to the collectivistic culture. On's individual identity matters more than that of the society they come from. Thus, cosleeping has a leeway irrespective of the social norms. It could be associated with religious obligations. But, is not a societal norm. With westernization, a lot of global societies are accepting cosleeping with a positive outlook or as a mere trend. However, we see adaptation and cultural influence.