How does acculturation differ from assimilation?

Acculturation differs from assimilation primarily in the extent to which individuals adopt cultural elements from another society. Acculturation refers to the process in which individuals or groups adopt cultural traits from another culture while still retaining elements of their original culture. This could involve adopting certain practices, language, or beliefs from the new culture, but it does not necessarily mean that they give up their own culture.

In contrast, assimilation implies a deeper level of integration where individuals or groups fully blend into a new culture, often at the expense of their original cultural identity. This means that those who assimilate adopt the new culture completely, sometimes leading to the loss of their previous cultural traits.

This distinction highlights the nuances of how individuals navigate cultural exchanges, making the understanding of acculturation and assimilation critical in discussions about multiculturalism, identity, and societal integration. The other options present misunderstandings about these concepts, such as equating the two terms or suggesting limitations that do not accurately reflect their broader social implications.