Saturday, October 6, 2012
Week 7 ~ nonverbal displays in different countries
I cannot talk for many cultures, but one I sure can relate to. I came from Ukraine, and there are some significant differences in communication. Nonverbal messages do not differ from the way they are used in America, maybe slight difference between the way people act. A smile is not something that you can see as often as we see it here. Even though people might be just as happy, they don't often show it with their face expressions, and that is why sometimes it is hard to intrepid if a person is happy, mad, or just doesn't care. Some gestures like the "thumbs-up" signify approval, just like here. When people talk in public they stand very close to each other, because it is considered to be inappropriate to speak loudly in public. Eye contact is something that signifies honesty during a conversation, but it is considered to be rude to just stare at someone for no reason. The other gestures, are similar to American ones, for example a kiss on a cheek, pat on shoulder and a hug is considered to be acceptable norms of communication for close acquaintances.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I love how you were able to write about your own personal differences in communication. For me I have not been able to experience that yet but I am hoping to travel more and get a better understanding of the differences in communication. It is interesting how one must use certain communications in different ways, for example it is rude to stare but how you mentioned making eye contact is a sign of honesty. It is so interesting how tough communicating really can be.
ReplyDelete