What differentiates acculturation from enculturation?

Acculturation is the process through which individuals or groups adopt the cultural traits or social patterns of another group, often as a result of prolonged interaction. This concept primarily focuses on how individuals assimilate aspects of a different culture while still retaining elements of their original culture. In contrast, enculturation refers to the process by which individuals learn and adopt the customs, values, and norms of their own culture, typically occurring from a very early age as they grow up within a specific cultural context. Therefore, the key distinction lies in the fact that acculturation involves adopting a new culture, whereas enculturation is about learning one’s original culture. This fundamental difference highlights how individuals may integrate diverse cultural influences through acculturation, while enculturation ensures the transmission and preservation of cultural identity through generations.