"Intercultural communication" is communication【51】members of different cultures. This definition is simple,【52】the process is complex. Intercultural communication involves differing perceptions, attitudes and interpretations. We know that even two people from the same【53】can have communication problems. People can unintentionally hurt each other by something they say or【54】. Isn't it logical, then, that communication problem can be【55】among people who do not have the benefit of shared experiences (i. e. , language and culture) 9. Cultures do not communicate; individuals【56】. Everyone has a unique style. of communication, but cultures determine a general style. for their members. The【57】of individual to his culture is【58】to an actor and his director. The actor puts his own personality into his acting but is nevertheless influenced by the director. We are not always aware of the subtle influences of our culture.【59】, we may not perceive that others are influenced by their cultures as well.
Problems and misinterpretations do not result every time members from two cultures communicate.【60】, when cultural conflicts do arise, they may be perceived【61】personal rather than cultural. In the following example it is a【62】misunderstanding that creates negative feelings and confusion. A young woman from one culture is looking【63】of the window and sees a male acquaintance from another culture. He signals to her by puckering his lips . She quickly looks away from the window. Later she ignores him. He is confused and she is angry.
The【64】was due to the woman's failure to understand the man's nonverbal signal. In her culture, his gesture conveys a sexual advance. According to his culture, he Was only saying (nonverbally) , "Oh there you are . I've been looking for you." The woman's misinterpretation resulted【65】her angry reaction and his【66】. If the two had known more【67】each other's nonverbal cues, they could have【68】the cultural conflict.
Some misunderstandings are insignificant and can be easily【69】or remedied.【70】conflicts are more serious in that they can cause misinterpretations and create persistent negative attitudes toward foreigners.
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