Developing Intercultural Communication Competence

Introduction

• Communication Competence: Knowing how to communicate respectfully and ethically in any situation, with a feeling of social ease.
• Intercultural Communication: Challenges arise due to culture shock, potentially affecting communication competence.

Potential Barriers to Intercultural Communication

1. Anxiety

   • Arises from unfamiliar situations or language barriers.
   • Example: Learning a new language (like Spanish) can cause anxiety in real-life situations.

2. Assumed Similarity or Difference

   • Assumed Similarity: Believing someone is like you based on superficial similarities.
   • Assumed Difference: Believing someone is too different to understand each other.

3. Ethnocentrism

   • Belief that one's own culture is superior.
   • Can lead to microaggressions and biases.
   • Historical examples include the KKK, the Holocaust, and slavery.

4. Stereotyping

   • Preconceived notions about a group leading to racism or discrimination.

5. Incompatible Communication Codes

   • Differences in language or cultural expressions.
   • Example: British English vs. American English leading to misunderstandings.

6. Incompatible Norms and Values

   • Vastly different societal norms can cause discomfort or misunderstandings.
   • Example: Cultural differences in attitudes towards animals.

Competent Communication Strategies

1. Acquire Accurate Knowledge

   • Formal Study: Reading and learning formally about a culture.
   • Observation: Non-participant observation, e.g., through media.
   • Immersion: Participant observation, e.g., study abroad programs.

2. Adopt an Appropriate Attitude

   • Tolerate Ambiguity: Accept uncertainty and focus on feedback.
   • Be Open-Minded: Understand differences without necessarily changing personal beliefs.
   • Be Altruistic: Show genuine concern for others' welfare.

3. Develop Culture-Centered Skills

   • Practice Listening: Essential for understanding others.
   • Practice Empathy: Placing oneself in another's cultural context.
   • Develop Flexibility: Adjust communication to fit different cultural contexts.

Conclusion

• Aim to coexist with different cultures within and outside one's own dominant culture.
• Understanding co-cultures within one's society is crucial for effective intercultural communication.