AAMC FL Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Test

Cultural transmission refers to the process through which knowledge, beliefs, values, and behaviors are passed down from one generation to the next within a society. This transmission can occur through various means, including socialization, education, language, and imitation. It is a fundamental mechanism by which cultures maintain continuity over time, allowing individuals to learn societal norms and practices from their predecessors.

This process is crucial for the preservation and evolution of culture, as it helps children understand their place within their society and equips them with the skills necessary to function within their community. Family, peers, educational institutions, and media all play vital roles in this ongoing transmission of culture.

In contrast, the life course approach to health focuses on the lifetime experiences and social contexts that impact health and well-being, which is separate from the direct passing of cultural elements. Context effects relate to the influence of contextual factors on individual behavior, but do not specifically address cultural continuity. Culture lag refers to the time it takes for society to adapt to new technologies or changes, highlighting a gap rather than a transmission process.