When I think of what makes up culture and diversity and engage in some type communication with groups that are different from me, I see myself talking in a different manner. For example, when I am speaking with someone that has similarities with my culture, I am more comfortable and speak in a freestyle manner, but intelligent depending on what the conversation is in regard to and who I am speaking to. While I am speaking to someone that has similar groups and cultural aspects of my own, I still give the same respect and understanding as I would anyone that is different from me. When I am engaged in a conversation with someone who has different groups and cultural aspects from I see myself speaking in a more intelligent and tense manner, but I am still providing them with respect and dignity. Since I speak to cultures different from my own in a different manner, I have to get a better understanding of their beliefs, language, and what is seen as disrespectful and what is not.
I have learned that you must be mindful of the different languages, tone of voice and body language that is being perceived by the person that you are communicating to
(O'Hair & Wiemann, 2009). It is important to remember to have understanding and respect as well as knowing that it is not what you say but how you say and who you say it to, in order to make sure that the information is being interpreted clearly and concisely with respect to the other person. Not everyone understands and perceives messages the same, even though you are speaking to different groups and cultures at the same time about the same thing.
Reference
O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2009). Real communication an introduction. Boston MA: Bedford's St. Martin’s .
Tammie,
ReplyDeleteIt is funny how we change our language when we talk to different people. We can have the same conversation but depending on who we are talking to the language changes. It's also amazing how people can mis-interpret what you say or what you mean. I am truly learning this the hard way with the parents in my center. Sometimes I feel like I can't say anything without someone hearing what they want to hear but thank goodness for courses like this. Great post, thanks for sharing.