In Some Countries, Male Circumcision, a Common Practice in the United

question 1

Multiple Choice

In some countries, male circumcision, a common practice in the United States, is considered genital mutilation. Which of the following comments best explains these different characterizations?

• A) Non-U.S. cultures are ignorant regarding appropriate parenting practices.
• B) Parenting decisions are greatly influenced by shared cultural beliefs.
• C) Superior surgical procedures in the United States increase the value of circumcision.
• D) Only American parents use scientific research to support parenting decisions.

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Definitions:

Stereotypes

Overgeneralized beliefs about a particular category of people.

Taboo

Behavior that brings the most serious sanctions.

Sanctions

Measures taken by a state or an agency to coerce another to conform to an international agreement or norms, often in the form of restrictions or penalties.

Element of Culture

An element of culture includes any constituent of culture, such as beliefs, values, norms, symbols, language, and rituals, that contributes to the identity and continuity of a particular society.