As I embarked on my study abroad journey in Oviedo, Spain, I couldn’t help but notice the stark contrast in the way stigmas and misinformation are perceived between Europe and the United States. This week, I had the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking conversation with my Spanish professor, which shed light on the cultural beliefs and values that underpin these differences and how they will shape my continued engagement with my host country and culture.
During our discussion, it became evident that the approach to stigmas in Europe, and specifically in Spain, differs significantly from that in the United States. In the U.S., there’s often a strong push for open dialogue and raising awareness about stigmatized issues such as mental health, addiction, and diversity. Many campaigns and initiatives aim to break down these stigmas and promote inclusivity. This approach reflects a cultural value placed on individualism, freedom of expression, and social progress.
Conversely, in Spain and other European countries, there’s a tendency to handle stigmatized topics with greater discretion and privacy. My Spanish professor explained that the importance of maintaining one’s dignity and not airing personal issues in public is deeply ingrained in their culture. While there’s compassion and support for those facing challenges, there’s also an emphasis on personal resilience and not burdening others with one’s problems. This cultural value ties into the concept of “la vida privada,” or private life, which is highly regarded in Spanish society.
Misinformation also took a different form in our conversation. In the United States, there’s an ongoing battle against the spread of false information, particularly in the digital age. Fact-checking and calling out misinformation are common practices. However, in Spain, I learned that there’s a stronger reliance on trusted sources and institutions. People here tend to have more faith in traditional media and government agencies to provide accurate information, whether or not this is true.
I’ve realized that while it’s essential to promote open dialogue and challenge stigmas where necessary, it’s equally important to adapt to the cultural norms and values of the community I’m living in. By doing so, I can foster more meaningful connections and create a positive exchange of ideas and experiences. Moreover, this insight into differing approaches to misinformation reminds me to critically evaluate information sources and understand that the strategies for combating false information may vary across cultures. It encourages me to seek out local perspectives and reliable sources when trying to grasp the truth of a matter.