Chaper 3 textbook Comm 11
Culture and Interpersonal Communication
Authors: Ronald B. Adler, Lawrence B. Rosenfeld, Russell F. Proctor II(Santa Barbara City College, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Northern Kentucky University)
Learning Objectives
3.1 Explain the relationship between intercultural and interpersonal dimensions of communication.
3.2 Describe five key values that help shape a culture’s communication norms.
3.3 Recognize the range of co-cultures in today’s society and how co-cultural factors can affect interpersonal communication.
3.4 Explain the factors that shape a culture’s verbal and nonverbal codes.
3.5 Identify the attitudes, knowledge, and skills required for intercultural communication competence.
The Global Village
Marshall McLuhan (1962) metaphorically describes the world as a global village connected through communication technology.
Communication technology has transformed international commerce and societal structures, making societies increasingly multicultural and multiethnic.
Example: Immigration contributes to the multicultural makeup of countries like the U.S., reflecting the global village concept.
3.1 Culture and Communication
3.1.1 Culture and Co-Culture
Definition of culture by Larry Samovar et al. (2007): "the language, values, beliefs, traditions, and customs people share and learn."
In-groups vs Out-groups: Groups you identify with versus those you view as different.
Cultural membership shapes personal social identity and self-concept.
Co-cultures: Subgroups within a dominant culture that share unique communication patterns based on age, race, sexual orientation, nationality, etc.
Example: Deaf culture relies on signing as a shared language, creating unique bonds but also challenges in communication with those outside the group.
3.1.2 Intercultural Communication
Occurs when members of various cultures exchange messages influenced by their distinct cultural perceptions and symbols, verbal/nonverbal.
Not all communication is intercultural: common backgrounds can lead to homogeneous interactions.
Cultural salience: The significance or weight given to cultural differences during interactions affects the nature of communication.
3.1.3 Interpersonal and Intercultural Dimensions of Communication
William Gudykunst’s model showcases the relationship between interpersonal communication and intercultural elements.
Some interactions are purely interpersonal (e.g. conversations between siblings) while some are purely intercultural (e.g. traveler asking for directions in a foreign country).
Most relevant encounters have elements of both dimensions, found in diverse and global business environments.
3.1.4 Intercultural Differences as Generalizations
Communication styles may vary significantly between cultures, yet generalizations should be applied cautiously.
Example of formality: American culture is generally casual compared to more formal cultures.
3.2 Cultural Values and Norms
Important to recognize hidden norms influencing perceptions and behaviors of communicators from different cultures.
3.2.1 High versus Low Context
High-context cultures rely on nonverbal cues and relationship histories (mostly Asian, Middle Eastern).
Low-context cultures prioritize direct language in communication (U.S., Canada, Northern Europe).
Differences in style may lead to misunderstandings, i.e., directness versus ambiguity.
3.2.2 Individualism versus Collectivism
Individualistic cultures value individual achievement and independence (U.S., Canada).
Collectivist cultures prioritize group harmony and familial obligations (Ecuador, Indonesia).
Levels of communication apprehension differ across these cultures, with collectivist societies exhibiting greater anxiety in public speaking.
3.2.3 Power Distance
Describes societal acceptance of unequal power distribution (e.g., hierarchical cultures).
Low power distance cultures (e.g., U.S., Canada) favor egalitarian principles while high power distance cultures (Philippines, Mexico) maintain rigid hierarchies.
3.2.4 Uncertainty Avoidance
Refers to the extent to which cultures tolerate ambiguity and uncertainty in life.
Cultures with high uncertainty avoidance prefer strict rules, while those with low uncertainty avoidance embrace change and ambiguity.
3.2.5 Achievement versus Nurturing
Achievement-oriented cultures focus heavily on success and materialism (U.S.), while nurturing cultures prioritize relationships over achievements (e.g., Netherlands).
3.3 Co-Cultures and Communication
Co-cultural factors (e.g. race, gender, age) significantly shape identity and influence interpersonal communication.
3.3.1 Race and Ethnicity
Race as a social construct with no biological basis (Kolbert, 2018); ethnic identity affects perspective and interaction processes.
3.3.2 Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
The visibility of LGBTQ identities affects interaction dynamics; supportive communication climates are essential.
Platforms allow for various expressions of sexual orientation, but challenges remain for non-affirmed individuals.
3.3.3 Age and Generation
Age impacts language and behavior; societal views on aging can lead to generational misunderstandings, especially within workplace dynamics.
3.3.4 (Dis)abilities
Disabilities can affect communication practices; awareness and understanding are necessary for inclusion.
3.3.5 Socioeconomic Status
Class influences communication styles; first-generation college students navigate distinct cultural expectations in educational settings.
3.4 Codes and Culture
3.4.1 Verbal Codes
Language variety reflects different communication rules and identities; code-switching enables adaptation to different audiences.
Verbal communication differs in formality and expressiveness from culture to culture.
3.4.2 Nonverbal Codes
Nonverbal cues such as gestures and personal space yield diverse interpretations across cultures.
Misunderstandings in nonverbal communication can lead to interpersonal conflict.
3.4.3 Microaggressions
Subtle forms of discrimination, often unnoticed by the sender, can damage relationships, highlighting the necessity for cultural sensitivity.
3.5 Developing Intercultural Communication Competence
Key attributes for effective intercultural communication include.
3.5.1 Motivation and Attitude
High willingness to communicate with diverse individuals leads to friendship development and social networking.
3.5.2 Tolerance for Ambiguity
Comfort with uncertainty in communication interactions can build stronger relationships across cultures.
3.5.3 Open-Mindedness
An open attitude can prevent ethnocentrism and prejudice, creating space for mutual respect and understanding.
3.5.4 Knowledge and Skill
Understanding cultural specifics is essential; mindfulness in behavior towards others fosters successful interactions.
3.5.5 Patience and Perseverance
Navigating cultural differences is often complex; adapting to new cultural norms requires time and effort.