I’m 18, and I’ve been watching tons of anime since I was about 6. I was almost addicted to it growing up. But now that I’m older, there are some things I’ve noticed about this hobby of mine that have affected my growth as a kid/person.

Even though I am born in America and have mostly white parents, I have some Japanese tendencies. Like, I’ve always made noises like “wha” or “eh” when I’m surprised and stuff. and I’m starting to feel a little embarrassed about it now that I’m older and just realizing what I’m doing subconsciously...

I don’t feel totally weird about it since my grandmother’s side of the family is from Japan so I’m 25% Japanese but I still feel weird discovering this about myself.

I remember thinking silly things like “why don’t the boys in America flutter girls skirts like in anime” (obviously I was very young lmao, little boys should never do that) and its so interesting to think how other culture’s can influence a child’s thinking, especially during development.

I also understand a lot of Japanese humor and references in anime that my other “new anime-watching” friends don’t get or find funny. I feel so cringe saying all this haha but my point is, is this a regular thing for people to internalize other cultures they are exposed to for a long time at a young age? Just food for thought y’kno.

Have a pleasant day