Communication And Culture: Cultural Sensitivity As An Attitu

Communication And Culturecultural Sensitivity Is A An Attitude And Way

Communication and culture are integral aspects of human interaction, with cultural sensitivity playing a vital role in fostering effective intercultural communication. Cultural sensitivity is fundamentally an attitude and a way of behaving characterized by awareness and acknowledgment of cultural differences (Franklin & Mizell, 1995). This awareness enhances our ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries, which is essential for achieving global objectives such as peace, economic development, and harmonious interpersonal relationships.

According to William Gudykunst and Young Yun Kim in their work, Communicating With Strangers: An Approach to Intercultural Communication, humans communicate based on the norms, language, and rules ingrained during their upbringing. Each culture, and subculture within broader cultural contexts, develops its distinct set of norms and rules that influence communication practices. Understanding these cultural differences is fundamental to effective cross-cultural communication as it reduces misunderstandings and promotes mutual respect. Their approach emphasizes that awareness of cultural norms and differences fosters better communication and helps bridge gaps between individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Assessing Personal Cross-Cultural Sensitivity

Reflecting on personal cross-cultural sensitivity involves evaluating one’s attitudes and behaviors towards cultural diversity. An individual's ability to recognize and respect diversity significantly impacts interactions in multicultural settings such as workplaces or educational institutions. For example, a person with high cultural sensitivity may actively seek to understand different perspectives and avoid assumptions based on stereotypes.

Considering a personal experience, suppose I observed a situation where colleagues from different cultural backgrounds worked on a project. One team member, unfamiliar with certain cultural nuances, unintentionally made a comment that was perceived as insensitive by another member. The problem arose from a lack of awareness and understanding of cultural norms, leading to tension and miscommunication. If the team had engaged in intercultural sensitivity training beforehand, the situation might have been prevented or mitigated. Encouraging open dialogue about cultural differences and promoting respectful communication practices could improve such interactions.

Application of Course Concepts to Cross-Cultural Situations

Several concepts from intercultural communication theories are relevant to understanding and enhancing cross-cultural sensitivity. For instance, Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory provides insight into how cultural values influence communication behavior. Dimensions such as individualism versus collectivism and power distance affect how individuals from different cultures approach authority, teamwork, and communication style.

Applying Hofstede’s concepts, one can recognize that individuals from collectivist cultures may prioritize group harmony over individual expression, whereas those from individualist cultures might emphasize personal opinions and direct communication. Awareness of these differences can guide individuals to adapt their communication style accordingly, fostering understanding and respect.

Additionally, the concept of cultural humility emphasizes ongoing self-awareness and a commitment to learning about other cultures rather than assuming expertise. Practicing cultural humility encourages individuals to listen actively, ask respectful questions, and recognize their biases, which enhances cross-cultural sensitivity.

Strategies for Improving Cross-Cultural Sensitivity

To improve cross-cultural sensitivity, individuals can engage in several practices. First, developing intercultural competence involves gaining knowledge about different cultures through reading, immersive experiences, or formal training. This knowledge helps in recognizing cultural norms and adapting behaviors appropriately.

Second, fostering empathy entails putting oneself in others' shoes and understanding their perspectives without judgment. This empathy creates an environment where cultural differences are appreciated rather than feared or dismissed.

Third, adopting a mindset of curiosity rather than judgment allows individuals to view cultural differences as opportunities for learning and growth. Engaging with diverse cultures with openness and respect enhances intercultural understanding.

Conclusion

Cultural sensitivity remains a cornerstone of effective intercultural communication, especially as globalization continues to accelerate interactions across borders. Recognizing the influence of cultural norms, actively working on understanding and respecting diversity, and applying theoretical concepts like Hofstede’s dimensions and cultural humility can significantly improve cross-cultural interactions. By adopting these attitudes and behaviors, individuals and organizations can foster inclusive, respectful, and effective communication, contributing to broader societal goals such as peace and collaboration across cultures.

References

• Franklin, C., & Mizell, R. (1995). Cultural sensitivity and intercultural communication. Journal of Intercultural Relations, 19(1), 21-34.
• Gudykunst, W. B., & Kim, Y. Y. (2017). Communicating with Strangers: An Approach to Intercultural Communication. Routledge.
• Hofstede, G. (2001). Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind. McGraw-Hill.
• Arnett, R. C. (2008). Cross-cultural communication competence. Intercultural Communication: A Reader. SAGE Publications.
• Birikundavyo, J. D., & Musonda, T. (2020). Cultural Intelligence and Cross-cultural Competence: Bridging the Gap for Effective International Collaboration. International Journal of Cross Cultural Management, 20(2), 193-209.
• Deardorff, D. K. (2006). Identification and assessment of intercultural competence as a student outcome of internationalization. Journal of Studies in International Education, 10(3), 241-266.
• Hall, E. T. (1976). Beyond Culture. Anchor Books.
• Levinas, E. (1985). Ethics and Infinity: Conversations with Philippe Nemo. Duquesne University Press.
• Spitzberg, B. H., & Chagnon, G. (2013). Communication competence. In The International Encyclopedia of Intercultural Communication.
• Tseng, W. S. (2018). Cross-cultural communication competence: Cultural intelligence as a key to intercultural effectiveness. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 62, 88-94.