Chapter 3: Intercultural Communication COMM3 Verderber, Sellnow, and Verderber © 2014 Cengage Learning

Learning Outcomes LO 3-1 Define culture and the role of communication in it LO 3-2 Explain the relationship between dominant and co-cultures LO 3-3 Understand the seven dimensions in which cultures differ LO 3-4 Describe the inherent barriers in intercultural communication and the methods to develop competent intercultural communication © 2014 Cengage Learning

Culture Culture is the system of shared values, beliefs, attitudes, and norms that guides what is considered appropriate among an identifiable group of people. © 2014 Cengage Learning Learning Outcome 3-1

Intercultural Communication Intercultural communication refers to the interactions that occur between people whose cultures are so different that the communication between them is altered. We do not need to visit other countries to meet people of different cultures. The United States is a multicultural society. Learning Outcome 3-1 © 2014 Cengage Learning

Dominant Cultures Dominant culture refers to the learned system of norms held by the majority group of empowered people in a society. The dominant culture of the United States has evolved over time. Learning Outcome 3-2 © 2014 Cengage Learning

Co-cultures A co-culture is a group consisting of a smaller number of people who hold common values, beliefs, attitudes, and customs that differ from those of the dominant culture. Co-cultural group members sometimes code switch, altering their linguistic and nonverbal patterns to conform to the dominant culture or co-culture depending on the circumstances. © 2011 Cengage Learning Learning Outcome 3-2 © 2014 Cengage Learning

Cultural Identity © 2011 Cengage Learning Cultural identity is the part of our self-concept that is based on how closely we associate with both the dominant culture and various co-cultures. Some co-cultures are formed around shared beliefs and values related to: Race Ethnicity Native Language Sex/Gender Sexual Orientation Religion Socioeconomic Status Age/Generation Disability Learning Outcome 3-2 © 2014 Cengage Learning

Barriers to Intercultural Communication We can develop intercultural communication competence by acknowledging potential barriers and employing several strategies to overcome them. Some of the most common barriers to effective intercultural communication include: – Anxiety – Assuming similarity or difference – Ethnocentrism – Stereotyping – Incompatible communication codes – Incompatible norms and values © 2014 Cengage Learning Learning Outcome 3-4

Competent Communication Strategies Competent intercultural communicators work to overcome potential cultural barriers by acquiring accurate information about other cultures’ values and practices, adopting an appropriate attitude, and developing culture-centered skills. © 2014 Cengage Learning Learning Outcome 3-4