Dimensions of Culture

A series of flashcards focused on key vocabulary and concepts related to the dimensions of culture and intercultural communication.

Cultural Competence

The ability to interact effectively with people of different cultures, developing awareness and skills to address cultural similarities and differences.

Power Distance

The extent to which less powerful members of organizations and institutions accept and expect that power is distributed unequally.

Individualism vs. Collectivism

A cultural dimension that refers to whether individuals prioritize their own needs (individualism) or the needs of the group (collectivism).

High Context Culture

Cultures where communication relies heavily on context, non-verbal cues, and the situation.

Low Context Culture

Cultures that rely on explicit verbal communication and specific details rather than contextual cues.

Uncertainty Avoidance

The degree to which members of a culture feel uncomfortable with uncertainty and ambiguity, leading to a preference for structured environments.

Activity Orientation

Refers to whether individuals emphasize 'being' (existing and experiencing) or 'doing' (involvement and accomplishment) as the purpose of life.

Cultural Dimensions

Concepts that describe the effects of culture on values, behaviors, and communication, used to distinguish one culture from another.

Ethnocentrism

The belief that one’s own culture is superior to others, leading to a biased perspective on cultural differences.

Indulgence vs. Restraint

A cultural dimension that reflects the extent to which a society allows relatively free gratification of basic human desires related to enjoying life.

Multicultural Awareness

The understanding and appreciation of cultural differences and similarities, enhancing interactions with diverse groups.

Hofstede's Dimensions

A framework for cross-cultural communication that includes various cultural dimensions like uncertainty avoidance and power distance.

GLOBE Study

The most comprehensive research project on cultural dimensions across nations, identifying values and practices within different cultures.

Denial of Differences

An ethnocentric reaction to cultural differences where individuals believe their own culture is the only real culture.

Integration of Difference

An ethnorelative perspective where individuals see their identity as incorporating multiple cultures.