What is the term for adopting traits of another culture?

• A. Acculturation
• B. Integration
• C. Assimilation
• D. Ethnic Retention

Answer: (C)

Assimilation is the process by which individuals or groups fully adopt the cultural norms, language, and practices of a new culture and become part of that society, often blending in with the dominant culture and diminishing their original customs. In U.S. history, many immigrant communities were encouraged to assimilate—learning English, adopting American traditions, and adopting new social behaviors—to fit into the broader national culture and access opportunities. This differs from acculturation, which is about adopting some traits from another culture while still preserving one’s own identity; integration, which emphasizes inclusion and participation in society without necessarily shedding distinct cultural traits; and ethnic retention, which focuses on maintaining one’s original heritage. So, when the idea is specifically about adopting the traits of another culture, assimilation fits best.