Intercultural Communication Vocabulary - Oral Communication in Context

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from intercultural communication in the module.

Intercultural Communication

The sending and receiving of messages across languages and cultures, involving interaction, negotiation, and the creation of meaning using diverse cultural backgrounds.

Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS)

A framework describing six stages of how people experience cultural differences, ranging from ethnocentric to ethno-relative perspectives.

Stage 1 – Denial of Difference

The stage in which individuals are in denial about cultural differences, viewing them as nonexistent or trivial.

Stage 2 – Defense Against Difference

The stage in which differences are seen as ‘us vs. them,’ often with a belief that one’s own culture is superior.

Stage 3 – Minimization of Difference

The stage that assumes all humans are essentially similar, downplaying meaningful cultural differences.

Stage 4 – Acceptance of Difference

The stage where cultural differences are understood in context and curiosity about alternatives is maintained.

Stage 5 – Adaptation to Difference

The stage involving consciously changing perspective and behavior to interact effectively with other cultures.

Stage 6 – Integration of Difference

The stage where individuals are bicultural/multicultural and continue to grow, drawing on multiple cultural perspectives.

Ethnocentrism

The belief that one’s own culture is central to reality and superior to others.

Ethnorelativism

Understanding and appreciating other cultures within their own context without judging them by one’s own standards.

Nonverbal / Body Language Across Cultures

Nonverbal cues vary by culture and context; understanding them requires intercultural empathy and awareness.

Intercultural Empathy

The ability to understand another worldview and adjust one’s behavior accordingly.

Competent Intercultural Communicator

A communicator who demonstrates flexibility, reflectiveness, open-mindedness, sensitivity, adaptability, divergent thinking, systems thinking, and politeness, while considering gender, age, religion, and social factors.

Stereotyping

Generalizing traits of a group and applying them broadly, often leading to biased judgments.

Prejudice

Negative attitudes toward a group based on stereotypes and insufficient evidence.

Cross-Cultural Etiquette

Norms and expected behaviors when interacting with people from different cultures.

Intercultural Sensitivity

Awareness and respect for cultural differences, developed through the DMIS.

Cultural Awareness

Recognition and understanding of cultural norms, values, and differences to improve communication.