as a person think about lifestyle, philosophy of life, and moral code, and value system, the importance of her roots-cultural and family background-should become clear. individuals have different reactions to their roots. some feel very comfortable continuing the traditions and lifestyle of past generations; others reject all or a part of that way of life. Many become confused and are uncontain about should be continued and what should be rejected; others find a balance between using that part of their roots they find useful and making adaptations and changes needed to be functional in their present life situation.