So often cultures have different communication styles, or at least thats what i’ve learned in a previous class at Rollins. For example, some cultures are direct communicators while some are indirect. America in particular has a direct communication style, which means we often prefer people to use verbal communication as we so rarely rely on nonverbal communication when communicating with each other. For instance, when in conversation we will often repeat the phrases “Say what you mean” or “Don’t beat around the bush” out of frustration with another.
As someone who has been raised and continues to live in America I find this to be true. We often have very little patience when it comes to communicating. For example, I have a hard time communicating with people who don’t say what they mean, word for word. I struggle to interpret their nonverbal’s and would prefer for them to use verbal language. Although this may be lazy on my part as I just don’t want to put in the extra effort. I believe this aspect of American culture is valued by the majority and as a result, enabled me to feel the way I felt when communicating with others.
This aspect of our culture can be conflicting with others however. For instance, many cultures are indirect communicators and often say one thing, but imply another. This is often true when cultures value harmony and agreement in social settings. Thus, they preside courtesy over truthfulness. As a result, I can see this being a conflict. In fact, I have witnessed such an experience in America with those who were just raised differently. For example, those who were raised in such cultures may view Americans as rude and not being able to be selfless, valuing themselves above anyone else. Although, in turn, Americans may see these people as annoying or not being able to handle the truth.
Essentially, this kind of communication may be overlooked as it does not seem the most obvious form of conflict. However, not being able to communicate with another on the most basic level can be frustrating, especially when you assume someone communicates the same as you do, using the same verbal and nonverbal language. Yet, thats often not the case and it does not mean that one mode of communication is better than the other. It simply means people communicate differently and we must be patient with one another.
So, after doing this exercise I can see that patience and understanding will be key when traveling to other parts of the world and exploring different culture’s. I must not be narrow-minded and look through the eyes of someone who is American, but as someone who is new and open to a different perspective. After all thats what this study abroad opportunity is about as we are viewing a completely different place and becoming accustomed to our new surroundings. So, when the time comes to communicate with others I may be more understanding if we miscommunicate, knowing that our communication may not be the same and thats okay as we are not from the same culture nor place.