We are now going to look at how the way we respond to how others express themselves is affected by and is sensitive to different socio-cultural contexts.
While this is generally a positive thing, which leads to an interesting diversity in our lives, it can lead to misunderstanding if we are not aware of differences in cultural contexts.
Culture refers to the system of values, beliefs, traditions and behaviour of a particular group. It also refers to the accepted social practices of a particular group of people which makes this group unique. People often define themselves as belonging to a certain culture based on language and ethnicity, as well as religious, geographical or political affiliation.
We need to look at how communication is affected by cultural context. The socio-cultural context in which we operate influences how we express ourselves. We often have to engage in intercultural communication. This is communication between groups of people from different cultures. When we are engaged in intercultural communication the following important points must be kept in mind:
- People from different cultural groups might have different world views.
- People from different cultural groups might use different communication styles.
- When people from different cultural groups communicate there is often an element of anxiety that they may be misunderstood.
- When people from different cultural groups communicate it is essential that they communicate very carefully.
- Remember that our response to the ways that people from different groups express themselves is influenced by the socio-cultural context in which communication takes place.
- Avoid apathy (a don’t care attitude): Be aware of and sensitive to socio-cultural differences between yourself and others.
- Do not make assumptions: Never assume that what you have heard about other cultures is true.
- Avoid stereotyping: Do not fall into the trap of making generalised negative statements about a certain socio-cultural group.
- Be flexible and open: Do not resist change and always be open to new possibilities – listen carefully to new ideas and be prepared to change your old attitudes to those from different socio-cultural groups.
- Be aware of and sensitive to different world views.
- Be aware of and sensitive to the fact that others may speak a different language.
- Be aware of differences in non-verbal communication between different socio-cultural groups.
- Rid yourself of prejudices: Some of us have strongly held negative beliefs about certain cultures.
- Always attempt to build trust: Effective communication is more likely in an atmosphere of trust.