Which term describes the process by which the original culture is wholly abandoned and the new culture is adopted in its place?

Which term describes the process by which the original culture is wholly abandoned and the new culture is adopted in its place?

• A. Assimilation
• B. Acculturation
• C. Integration
• D. Enculturation

Answer: (A)

Assimilation describes a process where the original culture is wholly abandoned and the new culture is adopted in its place. It involves adopting the host society’s language, values, rituals, and social norms to such an extent that distinct cultural traits of the original group disappear. This stands in contrast to acculturation, where people adopt some aspects of another culture while keeping core elements of their own; integration, where individuals participate in both cultures while maintaining a distinct identity; and enculturation, which is about learning and passing along one’s own culture.

Assimilation describes a process where the original culture is wholly abandoned and the new culture is adopted in its place. It involves adopting the host society’s language, values, rituals, and social norms to such an extent that distinct cultural traits of the original group disappear. This stands in contrast to acculturation, where people adopt some aspects of another culture while keeping core elements of their own; integration, where individuals participate in both cultures while maintaining a distinct identity; and enculturation, which is about learning and passing along one’s own culture.