We tend to assume people are responsible for their own troubles because our way of life in the United States emphasizes .

Your question is missing the options. I've found the complete question online. It is as follows:

We tend to assume people are responsible for their own troubles because our way of life in the United States emphasizes:

a. collective goals.

b. individualism.

c. tradition.

d. relying on luck.

The correct answer is letter B. individualism.

Explanation:

Individualism is an ideology that emphasizes the worth of the individual over the collectivity. Societies based upon this belief tend to greatly oppose external interference, defending the individual's right to be herself, to pursue her own interests, and to be independent. A downside of such belief, however, is society's tendency to blame individuals for their own troubles. Since people are free to act and pursue whatever they wish, it is easy to see their problems as nothing but results of their own actions and decisions.

i'll just take the points xd