Final Presentation Intercultural Communication Step 1 Choose ✓ Solved

Final Presentation Intercultural Communicationstep 1choose A Culture

Research and present on a chosen culture or co-culture by narrowing your focus to a specific area such as gender (e.g., LGBTQA), nonverbal communication (e.g., proxemics, chronemics), verbal communication (e.g., language), or intercultural contexts (e.g., healthcare, business). Your presentation should be 4-6 minutes long, accompanied by a written outline submitted beforehand. Additionally, include a works cited page with at least three sources. In your presentation, address the following questions:

1. What are some specific norms in your culture? (greetings, honorifics)
2. What are the beliefs or belief systems of your culture? (what is true for the culture?)
3. What does the culture value? (standards for individuals/group)

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction to Intercultural Communication and Culture Selection

Understanding intercultural communication requires a nuanced examination of specific cultural norms, values, and beliefs. For this project, I have selected the Japanese culture, focusing on the area of communication norms, particularly nonverbal communication, which plays a crucial role in Japanese social interactions. This paper explores the norms, beliefs, and values of Japanese culture related to communication, providing insights into how they influence social behavior and intercultural interactions.

Selection of Culture and Area of Focus

The Japanese culture offers a rich domain for studying intercultural communication, especially through the lens of nonverbal cues such as proxemics and chronemics. Japanese communication emphasizes harmony, respect, and social hierarchy, reflected vividly in their nonverbal behaviors. These norms are deeply ingrained and dictate many aspects of daily interactions, from greetings to managing personal space and time during conversations.

Specific Norms in Japanese Culture

One of the prominent norms in Japanese society is the practice of bowing when greeting others. Bowing varies in depth and duration depending on the social context, indicating respect or gratitude (Kawahara, 2001). Honorific language, or keigo, is another significant aspect, where different levels of speech are used based on the social status or familiarity between interlocutors (Maekawa, 2000). These norms reinforce social hierarchy and group harmony, core values in Japanese society.

Additionally, eye contact is usually minimized in formal interactions, contrasting with Western traditions where eye contact is often associated with attentiveness or honesty (Kasumi & Kim, 2002). Maintaining appropriate physical distance, or proxemics, is also vital; Japanese tend to prefer a respectful physical distance which signifies social and cultural boundaries.

Beliefs and Belief System

Japanese culture embodies beliefs rooted in Confucianism, emphasizing respect for elders and authority, group harmony (wa), and modesty. Such beliefs influence communication behaviors where deference and humility are valued (Yamamoto, 2010). These beliefs shape the perception that social harmony supersedes individual assertiveness, leading to indirect communication styles and reluctance to confront or criticize openly (Yoshitake, 2015).

The cultural belief that harmony must be preserved impacts interpersonal interactions, fostering non-confrontational communication and an emphasis on listening and non-verbal cues (Beamer, 2001). The concept of "saving face" is also pivotal, prompting indirect speech and non-verbal cues to avoid embarrassment or shame.

Valued Cultural Aspects

Japanese society highly values group cohesion, respect, and societal hierarchy. Precision and formality in communication reflect these values, promoting a sense of order and predictability in social interactions (Miller, 2004). Collectivism prevails over individualism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony within the group (Hofstede, 2001).

Self-control, humility, and politeness are esteemed qualities, influencing communication styles to be unobtrusive and respectful (Haire, 2010). These values manifest in the careful use of language, nonverbal cues, and adherence to social rituals that affirm social order and mutual respect.

Conclusion

Understanding the norms, beliefs, and values of Japanese culture related to nonverbal communication provides crucial insights into its social fabric. Recognizing these patterns is vital for effective intercultural interactions, especially in contexts such as international business or healthcare, where misinterpretations could lead to misunderstandings. The emphasis on harmony, respect, and hierarchy distinguishes Japanese communication from Western styles, illustrating the importance of contextual sensitivity in intercultural competence.

References

• Beamer, F. (2001). Intercultural communication in Japan. Routledge.
• Haire, R. M. (2010). Values and communication in Japan: An introduction. Pacific Affairs, 83(2), 291-308.
• Hofstede, G. (2001). Culture's consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions, and organizations across nations. Sage publications.
• Kawahara, N. (2001). The cultural significance of bowing in Japan. Journal of Cross-Cultural Studies, 15(3), 45-52.
• Kasumi, Y., & Kim, G. (2002). Eye contact and communication styles in Japan and Korea. Asian Journal of Social Psychology, 5(2), 85-97.
• Maekawa, T. (2000). Honorific language and social hierarchy in Japan. Japanese Language & Literature, 34, 112-130.
• Miller, T. (2004). Japan's subtle communication style: An analysis. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 28(4), 403-423.
• Yamamoto, S. (2010). Confucian influence on Japanese social interactions. Asian Studies Review, 34(1), 23-37.
• Yoshitake, N. (2015). Indirect communication and face-saving behaviors in Japan. Journal of Pragmatics, 85, 125-134.