Whether it''''s closing cultural gaps or being open to and adapting to thecomplexities of communication in love and other relationships in work and life,recognizing and embracing diversity
FOREIGN TRADE UNIVERSITY BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FACULTY -*** INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION COURSE GROUP 04 INTERACTION PAPER Instructor: Gary Ruud, Ph.D Students: Nguyễn Thị Hồng Anh - 2011280202 Hà Phương Thảo - 2012280036 Trần Thảo Minh Nhi - 2012280029 Nguyễn Thị Quỳnh Như - 2012280030 Lê Hữu Phúc - 2014280203 Phạm Minh Tuấn - 2013280038 Hanoi, September 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS I Introduction II Topic One: Low-context and High Context Interaction Patterns 3 Definition Example Insight III Topic Two: Love Attitudes & Expectations Definition Example 10 Insight 12 IV Conclusion 12 References 14 Group Contribution Review 15 I Introduction The existence and development of humans, of civilizations, and of the communities that we see and live in today have one fundamental element that always stands out as the pillar that supports our common experiences: communication This aspect of our lives shapes human interactions, transcends cultural boundaries, and connects us in profound and complex ways To explore the depth of communication in general and intercultural communication in particular, this research paper explores two topics that are quite familiar but that we may not be fully aware of in some way It delves into the rich complexity of how we convey meaning, build connections, and navigate the complex dynamics of human interaction We will first approach the complex world of communication, dissecting the concepts of low-context and high-context interaction patterns These models show how communication differs across cultures, emphasizing that understanding diverse communication styles requires a deep awareness of cultural norms and contexts Then we will come to an extremely close and equally important topic - love - a universal emotion that unites us all but is expressed diversely in cultures We will shed light on the psychology of love, its role in emotional development, and its profound impact on our need for connection and belonging From there, we can draw conclusions about the multifaceted and complex nature of communication as well as cross-cultural communication It emphasizes that effective communication requires effort, sensitivity, and an understanding of the different layers that influence it Whether it's closing cultural gaps or being open to and adapting to the complexities of communication in love and other relationships in work and life, recognizing and embracing diversity in communication is essential to promoting understanding, resolving conflict, and nurturing connections in our increasingly globalized world II Topic One: Low-context and High Context Interaction Patterns Definition Hall (1976) claimed that human interaction, on a broad level, is divided into low-context and high-context communication systems In low-context communication (LCC), the emphasis is on how intention or meaning is expressed through explicit verbal messages In high-context communication (HCC), the emphasis is on how intention or meaning is conveyed through the embedded contexts (e.g., social roles or positions, relationship types, intergroup history) and the nonverbal channels (e.g., pauses, silence, tone of voice) of the verbal message In general, LCC refers to communication patterns of direct, matter-of-fact tone, transparency, assertiveness, and sender-oriented values (i.e., the sender assumes the responsibility to communicate clearly) In the LCC system, the speaker is expected to be responsible for constructing a clear, persuasive message that the listener can decode easily The value priority in LCC style is "say what you mean, mean what you say" as a mode of respect for verbal honesty and personal accountability In comparison, HCC style refers to communication patterns of indirect; tactful, nonverbal tone; diplomatic talk; self-humbling speech; and receiver-sensitive values (i.e., the interpreter of the message assumes the responsibility to infer the hidden or contextual meanings of the message; Ting-Toomey, 1985, 1988a, 1988b) In the HCC system, the listener or interpreter of the message is expected to "read between the lines" and infer the nonverbal subtleties that accompany the verbal message The value priority in HCC style is "don't say anything that will hurt the other's feelings" as a mode of interpersonal sensitivity for other-centric consideration (Gudykunst et al., 1996) Low-context and high-context interaction patterns have significant impacts on various aspects of human interaction: Relationship Building: - Low-Context: Low-context communication patterns can make it easier to establish relationships with individuals from different cultural backgrounds because of the explicit nature of communication However, it may sometimes be seen as impersonal or lacking in depth - High-Context: High-context communication patterns emphasize the importance of building deep and long-lasting relationships Trust and understanding are often built over time through shared experiences and implicit communication cues Conflict Resolution: - Low-Context: In low-context cultures, conflicts are often addressed directly and openly People tend to express their concerns and differences explicitly, which can lead to quicker resolution but may also escalate conflicts - High-Context: High-context cultures may avoid direct confrontation and prefer indirect methods of conflict resolution Issues may be addressed more subtly, relying on non-verbal cues or intermediaries to mediate conflicts Decision-Making: - Low-Context: Decision-making in low-context cultures tends to be rational and based on objective criteria It may involve formal processes and explicit discussions - High-Context: High-context cultures may rely more on consensus-building and group dynamics in decision-making Implicit cues and shared values play a significant role in the process Business and Professional Settings: - Low-Context: Low-context communication is often prevalent in business and professional settings in Western cultures Contracts, agreements, and instructions are typically explicit and legally binding - High-Context: High-context communication can be found in many Asian, Middle Eastern, and African cultures Building trust and relationships are crucial in business, and communication may be more indirect and relationship-focused Misunderstandings: - Low-Context: Misunderstandings in low-context communication often arise from ambiguous language or misinterpretations of explicit statements - High-Context: Misunderstandings in high-context communication may occur when individuals from different cultural backgrounds fail to grasp implicit cues or shared cultural context In summary, low-context and high-context interaction patterns have a significant impact on how people communicate, build relationships, resolve conflicts, make decisions, and conduct business Understanding these patterns is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication and interaction, as it helps individuals navigate cultural differences and avoid misunderstandings 2 Example In the context of intercultural business communication, the contrast between Low Context Communication (LCC) and High Context Communication (HCC) becomes abundantly evident Consider a hypothetical scenario involving two companies from distinct cultural backgrounds negotiating a business deal Company A, hailing from a Western individualistic culture, embodies the essence of LCC Their approach to communication is characterized by explicitness and a focus on written contracts In their initial meeting with Company B, they lay out the terms and conditions of the proposed partnership in meticulous detail, leaving no room for ambiguity Each aspect of the agreement, from pricing to deadlines, is spelled out explicitly, and the negotiation process is linear and transparent In contrast, Company B originates from an East Asian collectivist culture, where HCC prevails Their communication style is deeply rooted in context, relationships, and non-verbal cues When meeting with Company A, they begin the discussion with lengthy pleasantries, engaging in small talk to establish rapport and trust The details of the partnership are only hinted at, and key aspects are left unspoken, relying on the assumption that a shared cultural context will fill in the gaps Company B values harmony and face-saving, which translates into a subtle, indirect negotiation process As the negotiations progress, tensions arise Company A perceives Company B's communication as evasive and frustratingly vague, leading to misunderstandings about the terms of the agreement On the other hand, Company B feels that Company A's insistence on explicitness and documentation is impersonal and indicates a lack of trust This remarkable contrast in communication styles, rooted in their respective cultural backgrounds, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the influence of culture on business interactions It also highlights the necessity of cultural sensitivity and adaptability when engaging in international business negotiations, as bridging the gap between Low Context Communication and High Context Communication can be the key to successful cross-cultural collaborations Document continues below Discover more from: culture Cross Trường Đại học… 24 documents Go to course Sony Culture and it's evolution Cross culture Sony's culture Slides Cross culture 193 None Cross Culture gklerjglekrglrgjrtjgrtgr Cross culture None Values Inventory chap Cross culture 19 None Cross cultural management test… Cross culture None None Chapter Human Resource Selection… Cross culture None Insight The key insight drawn from this scenario is the important role that cultural variations in communication style play in shaping the outcomes of cross-cultural business interactions These differences, whether explicit or implicit, carry profound implications In the global business landscape, the ability to navigate these differences with sensitivity and adaptability is the key to success It is proof that understanding and adapting to these variations is not simply a matter of taste but a strategic imperative Grasping these insights is like possessing a key that can open the doors to effective cross-cultural collaboration It must be recognized that the effectiveness of communication extends beyond words and phrases, to the very core of culture By valuing this understanding, individuals and businesses can forge deeper, more harmonious, and ultimately more prosperous international relationships III Topic Two: Love Attitudes & Expectations Definition Love, an intricate and powerful emotion, plays an undeniable role in human life, transcending cultures, languages, and time It is a force that binds individuals together, often profoundly shaping the course of their existence Love forms the foundation of our relationships, providing us with a sense of belonging, purpose, and fulfillment While scholars and poets alike have struggled with defining love throughout history, its impact on human life is undeniable In the field of psychology and human communication, love is often considered a fundamental aspect of our emotional well-being and social functioning Psychologist John Bowlby, in his attachment theory, emphasized the importance of early experiences of love and attachment in shaping an adult’s relationships and communication patterns Love, in this context, serves as a foundational element in the development of trust, empathy, and emotional intelligence Abraham Maslow, in his renowned hierarchy of needs, placed love and belongingness at the center of human motivation Love, for Maslow, is a psychological need that drives individuals to seek affection, companionship, and intimacy In the context of human communication, it is this need for connection and belonging that drives our interactions with others Love serves as a powerful motivator for effective communication, as it motivates individuals to express themselves, understand, and empathize with their loved ones Furthermore, love's significance in human life is highlighted by research on successful relationships Renowned relationship expert John Gottman's work emphasizes the crucial role of love in building and maintaining healthy partnerships Love, in the context of committed relationships, becomes the base for effective communication, conflict resolution, and maintaining emotional intimacy The role of love in human life is multifaceted and profound It shapes our emotional development, fuels our need for connection and belonging, and serves as a catalyst for effective communication Recognizing the fundamental role of love in human existence allows us to appreciate its impact on our psychological and communicative processes, fostering deeper insights into the human experience Love, in the complex story of human existence, is a force that transcends boundaries, defies categorization, and encapsulates the essence of our common humanity It is a complex and multifaceted emotion that permeates our lives, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships In the realm of psychological and human communication, attempting to define love is like grasping the essence of life itself - a task both difficult and stimulating Psychologically, love is often described as a deep and intense emotional state characterized by affection, care, passion, and a deep sense of connection towards someone or something It encompasses a wide range of emotions, from the tender feelings we have for family and friends to the burning passion of romantic love Psychologists have long sought to unravel the intricacies of love, recognizing its role in human happiness and fulfillment Attachment theory suggests that our early experiences with caregivers shape our capacity to love and form relationships throughout our lives (Bowlby, 1969) Moreover, love is viewed as a basic human need, essential for our mental and psychological health In the realm of human communication, love is expressed through countless channels It could be a warm smile, a comforting touch, and shared stories Love is not limited to verbal language but it is conveyed through nonverbal signals, actions, and even silence (Burgoon and Hale, 1988) It is the unspoken understanding, shared laughter, and the silent support offered in times of need Love is the glue that binds relationships, the fuel that ignites passions, and the balm that soothes wounds (Berscheid and Walster, 1974) Although it is still challenging to grasp an exact definition of love, its significance in human communication is undeniable Love shapes our intentions, colors our perceptions, and guides our actions It is the driving force behind our desire to connect, to understand, and to be understood Love is the essence of empathy, the foundation of compassion, and meaningful human connections Within the complexity of love, communication emerges as the medium through which attitudes and expectations are expressed It is the bridge between our innermost feelings and the outside world In essence, communication is the root of love Through the words and gestures we share, they convey the depth of our affection, the level of our commitment, and our expectations Expressions are varied and it is through these intricate forms of communication that we express our feelings At the same time, in these intimate exchanges, our deepest desires and fears find voice (John Mordechai Gottman, 2009) Miscommunication or lack of communication can be a source of misunderstanding and conflict, while effective communication serves as a bridge to common understanding and emotional connection (Braithwaite and Baxter, 2006) Moreover, cultural norms and values play an important role in shaping how love is communicated Different cultures communicate love in different ways In intercultural relationships, understanding these nuances becomes critical, as they influence how love is perceived and responded to (David Louis Schoem and Hurtado, 2004) Thus, exploring the interaction between love and communication in diverse cultural contexts reveals the rich connections among people (G Chua and B Gudykunst, 1987) Communication is the foundation, the means to express love, reveal our common desires As we are exposed to the complexities of intercultural love, recognizing the pivotal role of communication becomes paramount in fostering understanding, connection, and lasting relationships Navigating the intricate realm of intercultural love comes with its unique set of challenges, but with understanding and adaptability, these challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and connection Language Barriers and Misinterpretations: Language differences can be a double-edged sword While they add richness to the relationship, they can also lead to misunderstandings To counter this, couples can invest in language learning together, fostering a shared journey of linguistic discovery Moreover, active listening and seeking clarification when necessary can bridge the gap caused by language differences Cultural Norms and Expectations: Differing cultural expectations regarding gender roles, family dynamics, and relationship milestones can pose challenges However, they can also provide opportunities for exploration and growth Engaging in open conversations about these expectations, respecting each other's cultural backgrounds, and finding common ground can lead to a harmonious relationship Long-Distance Relationships: In intercultural relationships, geographical distances can cause difficulties To address this challenge, couples can utilize technology to maintain regular communication, plan visits whenever possible, and set clear goals for the future when they can be together Family and Social Acceptance: Familial and societal expectations may not always align with intercultural relationships It's essential to communicate openly with family members, helping them understand the depth of the connection and the respect shared within the relationship Over time, acceptance may grow While intercultural relationships may present challenges, they also offer the opportunity to explore diverse perspectives, broaden horizons, and deepen connections By embracing these challenges as a means of personal and relational growth and by employing effective communication and mutual respect, couples can create enduring and enriching intercultural love stories Example The challenging year of 2021, during the ongoing pandemic, Huyen, an enthusiastic and determined university student in her second year, found herself in unfamiliar territory The bustling campus she once knew had turned quiet and empty, and students were now attending classes online Through the screens of her device, Huyen connected with Khoa, another student who had big dreams Their meeting was a happy accident on university’s volunteer activity , and what started as a random encounter soon grew into a relationship that went beyond online conversations For months, their lives became a symphony of shared experiences Video calls became their lifeline, bridging the chasm of separation They laughed together, studied side by side, cooked together, and even embarked on fitness challenges as their virtual world merged with their reality Late-night conversations were their refuge, where they bared their souls and exchanged dreams and passions But as time flowed, so did the complexities of their emotions The initial excitement gave way to the realization that they had shared nearly everything about themselves Silence began to creep into their conversations, and an unspoken sense of stagnation heavy in the digital air Huyen's birthday was the light at the end of their tunnel They had promised to reunite on that special day, hoping that it would rekindle the spark that had ignited their love Yet, just days before her arrival, the weight of unresolved conflicts and the frustration of feeling distant in spite of their closeness took its toll It was a difficult decision, one born of youth and inexperience Huyen made the heartbreaking choice to end their relationship, just days before Khoa's plane touched down in Hanoi The moment was heavy with unspoken words and shattered dreams as they stood face to face, yet emotionally worlds apart As Khoa turned to leave, he paused, his voice trembling "Perhaps," he said, "we were just children trying to keep things we weren't ready for." Huyen nodded through tears, and with one final bittersweet smile, they parted ways Their story serves as a reminder of the challenges that long-distance relationships faced during the pandemic, where screens couldn't shield them from the inevitable complexities of human emotions Although they may have lost each other, they emerged from this chapter of their lives with a profound understanding of love, growth, and the unpredictable journey of the heart Insight Intercultural relationships provide a unique context in which love, attitudes, and expectations intersect with the complexities of culture, language, and distance While they present challenges, such as language barriers and cultural differences, they also offer opportunities for personal growth and connection Effective communication, including open dialogue about cultural expectations, is essential for the success of these relationships Understanding and respecting each other's backgrounds and beliefs can lead to more harmonious and fulfilling intercultural relationships These relationships serve as evidence to the power of love to bridge cultural gaps and enrich our lives through diverse perspectives In the world of intercultural communication, love remains a universal language that knows no boundaries, reinforcing the idea that human connection can thrive in the face of cultural diversity IV Conclusion In examining the topics of low-context and high-context interaction patterns, as well as love attitudes and expectations in intercultural relationships, it becomes evident that communication is a multifaceted and nuanced process These two topics, while seemingly distinct, share common threads that emphasize the diversity and complexity of communication They both underscore the idea that effective communication requires effort, sensitivity, and an understanding of various layers Low-context and high-context interaction patterns illustrate how communication varies across cultures In low-context communication, clarity is key, while high-context relies on implicit cues and shared culture Communication isn't universal; it depends on cultural norms Understanding this diversity requires effort, respecting others' styles Similarly, love attitudes in intercultural relationships reveal how communication bridges cultural gaps Love is universal but expressed differently Effective communication is vital, necessitating open dialogue about cultural expectations and adapting to backgrounds In essence, both topics emphasize that communication is diverse and has many layers To fully comprehend and engage in effective communication, individuals must be aware of the cultural, contextual, and emotional aspects that influence it It requires effort, sensitivity, and a willingness to bridge gaps, whether they are related to cultural differences or the intricacies of love and relationships Recognizing this diversity in communication is essential for building meaningful connections, resolving conflicts, and fostering understanding in an increasingly globalized world References Berscheid, E and Walster, E (1974) Physical Attractiveness , [online] 7, pp.157–215 doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s0065-2601(08)60037-4 Bowlby, J (1969) 2nd ed New York: Basic Books Braithwaite, D.O and Baxter, L.A (2006) Thousand Oaks, Calif.: Sage Publications Burgoon, J.K and Hale, J.L (1987) Validation and measurement of the fundamental themes of relational communication , 54(1), pp.19–41 doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/03637758709390214 Burgoon, J.K and Hale, J.L (1988) Nonverbal expectancy violations: Model elaboration and application to immediacy behaviors , 55(1), pp.58–79 doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/03637758809376158 David Louis Schoem and Hurtado, S (2004) Ann Arbor: University Of Michigan Press G Chua, E and B Gudykunst, W (1987) Communication Research Reports, pp.32–37 Gottman, J and Silver, N (2018) London: Seven Dials An Imprint Of Orion Publishing Group Ltd John Mordechai Gottman (2009) New York: Psychology Press Maslow, A.H (1954) 3rd ed New York: Harper & Row Ting-Toomey, S and Chung, L.C (2022) ‘What Is the Connection Between Verbal Communication and Culture?’, in Oxford University Press, p 151 New York: Group Contribution Review Students ID Participation Nguyễn Thị Hồng Anh 2011280202 100% Hà Phương Thảo 2012280036 100% Trần Thảo Minh Nhi 2012280029 100% Nguyễn Thị Quỳnh Như 2012280030 100% Lê Hữu Phúc 2014280203 100% Phạm Minh Tuấn 2013280038 100% More from: Cross culture Trường Đại học Ngo… 24 documents Go to course Sony Culture and it's evolution Cross culture None Sony's culture - Slides 193 Cross culture Cross cultural management test bank Cross culture None None Values Inventory chap Cross culture None Recommended for you Chunghiaxahoikhoahoc kiểm tra cuối kỳ Chủ Nghĩa xã hội Khoa học 100% (1) BM1 - bm1 57 22 Quan Tri Kinh Doanh 100% (2) Báo Cáo Thực Tập Ngôn Ngữ Anh Tại… Quan Tri Kinh Doanh 100% (1) Topic THE Internet HAS Negative Impact… Luật học 100% (1)