Cultural Diffusion Article Attached

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Article attached Cultural Differences within Families Assumptions in families often go unstated and unchallenged but knowing where we “come from” mentally and emotionally is a key part of connecting meaningfully with the world around us. Getting outside of our own understanding, or at least being aware of what our assumptions are, can help us take important steps to connect with others and grow as individuals. This week’s supplemental reading highlighted six different ways culture shapes our reactions. They were: Different communication styles, Different attitudes towards conflict, Different approaches to completing tasks, Different decision making styles, Different attitudes towards disclosure, Different approaches to knowing. Please write a paragraph response for each of the following sets of questions.

Considering your own family, choose one of the six cultural differences above. Tell us a little about your family “norms” in this area. If you can, use an example to illustrate this family norm. What are one or two of the underlying assumptions in your family in regards to this norm? What are one or two positives of approaching the world with this norm? What, if any, could be the drawbacks of approaching the world with this set of assumptions? Now imagine you are from a family that approaches this point of difference with an alternative understanding. What would/could be the family ‘norm’? What could one or two of the underlying assumptions involved? What would be a positive outcome of adopting this understanding within your own family or working on a project with someone who had this alternative understanding?

Paper For Above instruction

In exploring the cultural dimension of communication styles within families, my family traditionally exemplifies a more indirect and respectful mode of interaction. We tend to avoid confrontational language, preferring to convey disapproval or disagreement subtly to maintain harmony. For instance, when a family member is upset about a decision, rather than directly expressing dissatisfaction, they might withdraw or communicate their feelings through non-verbal cues or gentle hints. The underlying assumption here is that maintaining peace within family relationships and minimizing conflict is of paramount importance, often superseding open disagreement or direct confrontation. This norm fosters a positive environment that emphasizes respect, patience, and understanding, which can strengthen familial bonds and facilitate smoother conflict resolution. However, a potential drawback is that issues may remain unspoken or misunderstood, leading to unresolved tension or miscommunication. If I were from a family that valued direct communication, the norms might emphasize honesty and openness, where problems are addressed head-on. The assumptions could include believing that directness fosters clarity and truth, and that avoiding confrontation prevents misunderstandings. A positive outcome of adopting this approach in a family or team project could be increased transparency and quick resolution of issues, though it might sometimes risk creating conflict where harmony was previously prioritized.

In examining attitudes towards conflict, my family tends to view disagreements as natural and healthy, viewing conflicts as opportunities for growth and understanding, provided they are handled respectfully. Our family norm encourages openly discussing differences and seeking compromise, often emphasizing listening and empathy. The underlying assumption is that conflict, handled properly, can lead to stronger relationships rather than weaken them and that avoiding conflict could result in suppression of feelings or resentment. Approaching conflict with this norm has positive implications, such as fostering honesty, strengthening communication, and nurturing resilience. Nevertheless, one drawback might be the potential for disagreements to escalate if not managed carefully, or for conflicts to become personal rather than productive. If another family emphasized avoiding conflict entirely, their norm might be to suppress disagreements or avoid sensitive topics altogether, assuming that peace and harmony outweigh the need for confrontation. The positive aspect of this alternative approach could be the preservation of calm and unity, especially in fragile or high-tension situations. In working with someone from such a family, adopting their norm might promote a more harmonious environment, though it could also hinder honest dialogue and problem-solving.

References

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