The degree of commitment to cultural values varies from person to person and is particularly influenced by age, gender, social layer and peer group influences. In many cultures health is not attributable to human intervention but is seen as an act of god or spirits. Magic and mysticism are often associated with health Cultural adaptation, changes in customs and traditions, reinforce genetic adaptation to promote lifestyles which are thought to enhance health. There are many examples of how culture can influence health. In India it is common for couples to have large families in order to ensure to ensure survival and care of the elderly.
Economic conditions support the cultural values of which influence family size.
A Study of patients in New York examined the cultural differences between Black, Irish, Italian, Jewish and Puerto Rican patients responses to facial pain. Cultural involvement related to expressed psychological impact of pain Patients were selected and grouped according to diagnosis and severity of condition. Distress was measured on a self assessment scale. The researchers found that Puerto Rican's were most likely to claim that they were distressed and Irish patients claimed least distress. Westbrook looked at how cultural groups might explain the causes of deafness.