APA Dictionary of Psychology

the extent to which an individual’s beliefs and behaviors align with the shared values and expectations of their cultural models and context. Rooted in cognitive anthropology, the concept recognizes culture as dynamic and multifaceted and allows for individuals to participate in multiple cultural worlds simultaneously. Research suggests that higher cultural consonance can be associated with better psychological well-being and, in some settings, more favorable physical health indicators, whereas persistent mismatch between personal circumstances and culturally valued ways of living may contribute to stress and poorer health outcomes.