Making Acquaintances: Differences And Similarities

Making Acquaintances Differences And Similaritiesplease Review The Sa

Making Acquaintances: Differences and Similarities Please review the samples posted on Blackboard before starting your work. Each student will provide a brief two-page cultural write-up relating to his/her representative country (chosen for Making Acquaintances Part 1: Do’s and Don’ts): (20 points). The write-up should include the historical background, communication styles (verbal and non-verbal), beliefs (religion, family, nature, etc.), and society structure (gender roles, role of children, family, ethnic groups, leaders, government, political ideologies, hierarchies). It is very important to connect these aspects with the value orientations addressed in the course:

- Human Nature (Universalism-Particularism, Good/Evil, High-Context/Low-Context, Uncertainty Avoidance)

- Relation to Nature (Subjugation, Harmony, Mastery, Inner-/Outer-Directed)

- Activity Orientation (Achievement/Ascription, Doing-Being-Being-Becoming)

- Human Relationships (Affectivity/Affective Neutrality, Instrumental/Expressive, Self (Individualistic)/Collective (Collateral)/Linear, Egalitarian/Hierarchical, Power Distance)

- Relation to Time (Past-Present-Future, Monochronic/Polychronic, Low-Context/High-Context)

Each student will also prepare a two-page list of ‘Reasons for Codes of Cultural Behavior’ explaining to tourists why it is important to follow the Do’s and Don’ts listed earlier, from the hosts’ cultural values perspective. This list must include:

a. Five major ‘Do’s’ for tourists:

- For each ‘Do,’ describe in detail one distinct value orientation of the culture (e.g., Respect, Collectivism, Hierarchical orientation, etc.).

- Ensure that each ‘Do’ is associated with a different value orientation, avoiding repetition.

b. Five major ‘Don’ts’ for tourists:

- For each ‘Don’t,’ describe in detail one distinct value orientation of the culture.

- Ensure variety in value orientations across the ‘Don’ list.

Additionally, the assignment requires APA-style in-text citations whenever you refer to resources, and a comprehensive reference list in APA format. The purpose is to explain the cultural rationale behind behaviors, emphasizing the importance of understanding local values.

Finally, each student will post their findings about their representative country in the ‘Making Acquaintances: Differences and Similarities’ discussion forum.

Paper For Above instruction

The cultural landscape of a nation profoundly influences the behaviors, perceptions, and social norms of its people. When visiting another country, understanding these cultural nuances becomes essential not only for respectful interaction but also for meaningful engagement. This paper explores a selected country, providing a detailed overview of its cultural background, communication styles, beliefs, social structure, and the significant cultural values that inform behaviors. Additionally, the paper offers a list of five 'Do’s' and five 'Don’ts' tailored for tourists, each grounded in the country’s unique cultural value orientations, explaining why these behaviors are important from the host community’s perspective.

Historical Background

The historical context of [Country Name] is marked by its rich and complex history of [brief historical outline], shaping its societal norms, leadership structures, and collective identity. For instance, the colonial past or indigenous traditions significantly influence contemporary cultural values and social hierarchies. An understanding of this history aids in interpreting current belief systems and societal dynamics.

Communication Styles

Communication in [Country Name] is characterized by [verbal/non-verbal styles]. For example, the country may prefer high- or low-context communication, where high-context cultures rely heavily on non-verbal cues and shared understanding, while low-context cultures favor explicit verbal expression. Non-verbal communication such as gestures, eye contact, and personal space also carries specific meanings rooted in cultural norms.

Beliefs and Values

Religious beliefs, attitudes towards family, nature, and spirituality play a fundamental role. In [Country], religion such as [religion] significantly influences daily life and societal expectations. Family structures tend to emphasize [collectivism or individualism], with distinct roles assigned based on age and gender. Beliefs about nature and the environment further inform behaviors, emphasizing either harmony with nature or mastery over it.

Society Structure

The societal hierarchy in [Country] is defined by factors such as gender roles, age, ethnic background, and political ideology. For example, gender equality might be prevalent or traditionally structured to preserve social hierarchy. Leadership roles and political systems reflect deeply ingrained cultural values, with particular emphasis on respect for authority and social order.

Value Orientations and Cultural Behaviors

Connecting these cultural aspects with value orientations provides insight into why certain behaviors are deemed appropriate or inappropriate. For example, a culture emphasizing collectivism and respect for hierarchy will likely view behaviors that promote community harmony and deference to authority positively, while individualistic practices may be viewed as disruptive.

Reasons for Cultural Do’s for Tourists

  1. Respect local customs and dress modestly: Rooted in collectivism and respect for social harmony, dressing appropriately shows consideration for local traditions and avoids offending hosts.
  2. Use polite language and gestures: This aligns with high-context communication, where indirect and respectful communication maintains social harmony.
  3. Observe and follow social etiquette in public spaces: Reflects the importance of social order and hierarchy in maintaining community cohesion.
  4. Actively listen and show interest in local traditions: Demonstrates appreciation for the host culture’s history and beliefs, reinforcing mutual respect.
  5. Participate respectfully in local festivals and rituals: Embodies the value of community and shared identity, fostering understanding and goodwill.

Reasons for Cultural Don’ts for Tourists

  1. Don’t publically criticize local leaders or religion: Linked to respect for authority and religious beliefs, criticism can threaten social stability.
  2. Don’t display inappropriate physical affection in public: Reflects cultural norms around modesty and social decorum.
  3. Don’t ignore traditional dress codes or religious practices: Disregarding these shows disrespect and can offend hosts deeply.
  4. Don’t take photographs where prohibited: Respects local privacy and religious sentiments.
  5. Don’t engage in superficial interactions without understanding local customs: Demonstrates superficiality or ignorance, risking cultural insensitivity.

Conclusion

Understanding the cultural background, communication styles, beliefs, and societal structure of [Country Name], along with the rationale behind specific behaviors, enhances respectful and meaningful interactions for tourists. Recognizing the underlying value orientations allows visitors to navigate cultural differences thoughtfully, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and harmony.

References

  • Hall, E. T. (1976). Beyond culture. Anchor Books.
  • Hofstede, G. (2001). Culture's consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions, and organizations across nations. Sage Publications.
  • Triandis, H. C. (1995). Individualism & collectivism. Westview Press.
  • Hall, E. T., & Hall, M. R. (1990). Understanding cultural differences. Intercultural Press.
  • Gesteland, R. R. (2012). Cross-cultural business behavior: Marketing, negotiation, leadership, and organizations. Copenhagen Business School Press.
  • Marsella, A. J., & Ybarra, L. (1988). Cross-cultural counseling: A comparative perspective. Brooks/Cole.
  • Chen, G. M., & Starosta, W. J. (2000). The development and validation of the intercultural communication scale. Human Communication, 3(1), 1–15.
  • Samovar, L. A., Porter, R. E., & McDaniel, E. R. (2010). Intercultural communication: A Reader. Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
  • Kim, Y. Y. (2001). Becoming interculturally competent. In D. K. Deardorff (Ed.), The SAGE handbook of intercultural competence (pp. 417-439). Sage Publications.
  • Boyce, T. (2004). Exploring culture and communication. Routledge.

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