Intercultural Communication
Intercultural communication explores how individuals from different cultural
backgrounds exchange information, ideas, and emotions. It examines the role of
cultural norms, values, and practices in shaping both verbal and nonverbal
communication. This chapter delves into the cultural influences on verbal and
nonverbal communication, as well as the relationship between bilingualism and
culture.
Cultural Influences on Verbal Language
Verbal language is the primary medium for human communication and a
significant carrier of culture. Each language reflects the values, worldview, and
history of the society in which it is used.
Language and Culture
1. Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis (Linguistic Relativity):
This theory suggests that the structure of a language influences how its
speakers perceive and think about the world.
a. Example: In English, time is linear (past, present, future), but in Hopi
(a Native American language), time is described in terms of cyclical
events.
2. Vocabulary Reflects Cultural Values:
Languages often have unique words to express culturally significant ideas.
a. Example:
i. In Japanese, the word "wa" represents harmony, reflecting the
collectivist nature of the culture.
ii. In German, "Schadenfreude" describes the joy derived from
another's misfortune, a nuanced concept absent in many other
languages.
Cultural Differences in Verbal Communication Styles
1. Direct vs. Indirect Communication:
a. Direct Communication (Low-Context Cultures):
Common in individualistic societies like the United States, where
clarity and explicitness are valued.
i. Example: Americans often say exactly what they mean,
avoiding ambiguity.
b. Indirect Communication (High-Context Cultures):
Found in collectivist societies like Japan, where subtlety and context
are emphasized.
i. Example: Instead of saying “no,” Japanese speakers might say,
“It is difficult,” implying refusal.
2. Formal vs. Informal Communication:
a. Cultures like South Korea and Germany emphasize formality,
especially when addressing elders or authority figures.
b. In contrast, cultures like the United States favor a more informal
approach, even in professional settings.
3. Turn-Taking and Interruptions:
a. In some cultures (e.g., Scandinavian), conversations have strict turn-
taking rules.
b. In others (e.g., Mediterranean), interruptions and overlapping speech
are common and show enthusiasm.
Challenges in Verbal Communication Across Cultures
Idioms and Slang: Phrases like "kick the bucket" or "spill the beans" may
confuse non-native speakers.
Accents and Pronunciations: Variations in speech can create
misunderstandings.
Language Barriers: Limited proficiency in a common language often leads
to oversimplification or miscommunication.
Cultural Influences on Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, posture, eye
contact, tone of voice, and physical proximity. It conveys emotions and intentions,
often complementing or contradicting verbal messages.
Types of Nonverbal Communication
1. Gestures:
a. Gestures are culturally specific and can have different meanings.
b. Example: A thumbs-up is a sign of approval in the U.S. but can be
offensive in some Middle Eastern cultures.
2. Facial Expressions:
a. Basic emotions like happiness, sadness, and anger are universally
expressed through facial expressions, but cultural norms regulate their
intensity and appropriateness.
b. Example: In East Asian cultures, people may smile to mask negative
emotions, while in Western cultures, a frown is more acceptable.
3. Eye Contact:
a. High-Eye Contact Cultures (e.g., Western Europe):
Eye contact signals confidence and honesty.
b. Low-Eye Contact Cultures (e.g., Japan, Middle East):
Avoiding eye contact shows respect, especially towards elders or
authority figures.
4. Touch (Haptics):
a. The appropriateness of touch varies greatly.
b. Example: In Latin American cultures, hugs and handshakes are
common, while in Japan, bowing is the preferred greeting.
5. Proxemics (Personal Space):
a. Close-Contact Cultures (e.g., Arab countries):
Physical closeness during conversations is normal.
b. Distant-Contact Cultures (e.g., Scandinavia):
Personal space is valued, and standing too close can cause discomfort.
Nonverbal Misinterpretations
Misunderstanding nonverbal cues can lead to cultural faux pas.
o Example: Nodding in Bulgaria means “no,” while it means “yes” in
many other cultures.
Bilingualism and Culture
What is Bilingualism?
Bilingualism refers to the ability to speak and understand two languages fluently. It
plays a significant role in shaping thought processes, cultural identity, and
communication styles.
Cognitive and Cultural Benefits of Bilingualism
1. Enhanced Cognitive Flexibility:
a. Bilingual individuals often switch between languages and cultural
norms, improving their adaptability and problem-solving skills.
b. Example: A bilingual child might choose polite phrases in Japanese
but switch to casual speech in English, depending on the social
context.
2. Better Cross-Cultural Understanding:
a. Bilingual speakers can navigate and appreciate multiple cultural
perspectives, reducing stereotypes and fostering empathy.
3. Code-Switching:
a. Code-switching involves alternating between languages within a
conversation.
b. Example: A bilingual Spanish-English speaker might say, "I’ll meet
you later. Hasta luego!" seamlessly blending languages.
Challenges of Bilingualism
1. Identity Conflicts:
a. Bilingual individuals may feel torn between two cultural identities.
b. Example: A second-generation immigrant might struggle to balance
their parents’ cultural values with the dominant culture of their new
country.
2. Language Proficiency Gaps:
a. Unequal fluency in both languages can create communication
difficulties.
b. Example: A child fluent in English but less skilled in their native
language may find it challenging to communicate with family
members.
3. Accents and Stereotypes:
a. Speaking with an accent might lead to biases or assumptions about
one’s intelligence or social standing.
Bilingualism and Cultural Identity
Language is closely tied to cultural identity.
Losing a native language (language attrition) can result in diminished
connection to cultural heritage. Conversely, maintaining bilingualism
preserves cultural traditions and fosters pride in one’s roots.
