Celtic Irish Compared to American Christian
By
Chantal Lewis
PSY 131: Cross-Cultural Psychology
(23319)
Instructor: Brandy Young
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Celtic Irish Compared to American Christian
Part 1: Self-analysis
I grew up in a family structure that seems to fall between extended and nuclear. I was
raised by my grandparents who have been married for almost 49 years now. They have very
stable lives now with both of them being retired though I remember a time when both of them
worked and still spent time with me. My mother did not start living with us until I was about 7
years old and it was around that time that my Great Uncle and Aunt on my grandma’s side of the
family passed away. My Great Uncle and Aunt did not live with us but we would constantly visit
one another.
I would like to think I had a fairly secure attachment to my grandparents growing up but I
do remember some things that look more anxious. I was a very happy child and admittedly a bit
spoiled since I was the only child in the household. However, I do remember being very anxious
and panicked when I was left alone but usually when my grandparents returned I was easily
comforted. I remember one time during a camping trip my grandpa and I took a hike, but with
me being very young I needed a break. My grandpa wanted to see if the trail lead anywhere so he
walked a bit ahead and left me with the dog. He didn’t go far and could probably still see me but
I didn’t know that at the time. Instead once he was out of sight I was suddenly became scared
and started crying. About five minutes later my grandpa came back and I was immediately
relieved that he returned. Though my grandparents did try to give me enough attention sometime
they were busier than what was probably desirable. I remember times when I would get injured
that my grandparent would just brush off my crying. I think this was probably because they were
raised that way. The inconsistency in which they reacted to my destress may have led to a more
Ambivalent attachment to them.
As an adult I am a fairly shy individual though I can be professional and a bit outgoing
given the right settings. I have a fair number of friends all of which I am very close with and
