Problems with cross-cultural research

• There are problems with doing cross-cultural research
• Cross-cultural research can reduce cultural bias
• Cross-cultural research isn't always valid
• With a translator it can be difficult to interpret what a participant says and does
• Some beliefs and customs are difficult to understand meaning finding can be misinterpreted
• Replications are impossible because procedures will have different meanings to people in different cultures meaning studies lack validity
• Ways of reduce cultural bias

  • Recognise cultural relativism (accepting there are no universal standards for behaviours)
  • Samples should be representative of groups you want to generalise to
  • Berry recommends conducting research in meaningful context and use local researchers who are part of the culture been studied