Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

The acceptance of co-sleeping in communities can primarily be attributed to differences in what?

1. Cultural views and values.

2. Levels of education of community members.

3. Access to research on safe sleeping arrangements.

4. Financial resources.

The correct answer is: Cultural views and values.

The acceptance of co-sleeping in communities is primarily shaped by cultural views and values, which significantly influence parenting practices and familial interactions. In many cultures, co-sleeping is seen as a natural extension of bonding, providing comfort and security for infants. Cultural beliefs about child-rearing often dictate whether parents view co-sleeping as beneficial or detrimental, impacting how they perceive sleeping arrangements. Cultural norms can also determine collective attitudes towards various parenting practices, including those related to child safety and autonomy. For instance, in some cultures, it may be customary for multiple generations to share sleeping spaces, emphasizing community and familial relationships over individual sleeping arrangements. This perspective contrasts with cultures that prioritize independence, leading to different approaches in sleep practices for children. While levels of education, access to research, and financial resources can play roles in individual decisions surrounding sleep practices, they are often secondary to the overarching cultural context that shapes those decisions. Hence, cultural views and values provide the foundational basis for the acceptance of co-sleeping within a community.