Analysis of Japanese Culture From a Psychological Perspective: A Brief Review

Abstract

This literature review examines psychological analyses of Japanese culture. A historical background provides the basis for examining the psychology of the Japanese people. Some of the major works about Japan and Japanese culture since World War II including works by Benedict, Doi, and Lebra are examined. Also looked at are several concepts and aspects of culture peculiar to Japan, such as dependency (specifically the concept of amae), the need for achievement and motivation, and individualism/collectivism. The expression of emotion and how expression of certain emotions impact social relationships is also investigated.