Cultural Diversity

       When one is sensitive and mindful, one can realize that cultural diversity is pervasive in every corner, across and within societies and families.  It is a reality and we need to learn to address these differences, particular as we communicate with people who are different from us culturally.

       Communication basically takes place through language, nonverbal behaviors, and listening (O’Hair & Wiemann, 2012).  Different cultural people use different languages and nonverbal behaviors to communicate.  Therefore, when communicating with others that are different in culture, we need to use language and nonverbal behaviors that are appropriate and can be understood by these people.  For example, as we communicate with elderly people, particularly those who are less educated, the words that we use have to be simple and straightforward, containing no word of jargon.  Additionally, we have to speak relatively slow with some nonverbal cues, such as repeating and complementing, to reinforce our verbal messages, in order to communicate effectively. 

       Three strategies that I will use for effective communication with people that are different with me culturally:

1.    Understand their deep culture, such as their worldview, values, beliefs, and practices, in order to fully understand their communication behaviors.

2.    Aware of my own patterns of behavior in communication, so that I am prepared to accept others who might have different patterns of behavior, hence, avoiding me to be bias and prejudice against others (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010).

3.    Be other-oriented, applying the Platinum Rule, “Do to others as they themselves would like to be treated”.  By doing so, others will feel comfortable to communicate with me

References:

Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating and working with diverse families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.

O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2012). Real communication: An introduction. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.