Intercultural Development Continuum IDC adapted by Mitchell R. Hammer, Ph.D. from the Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity by MJ Bennett, Ph.D. SPCOM 126 – Intercultural Communication Presented by Ann Gross Fall 2015

Overview Basic Concepts of IDC theory Stages of Intercultural Development Use of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI)

Basic Concepts of IDC Theory People go through predictable stages in approaches to intercultural interactions. Change in focus on similarities vs. cultural differences and in attitudes toward cultural differences.

Generalizations vs. Stereotypes Generalization – Statement of probability based on systematically collected data. Tendency of the group as a whole. Stereotype – Applying generalization to each member of the group, or generalizing from only a few group members.

General Development on IDC May move from Monocultural to Multicultural mindset Monocultural Mindset – Own culture seems more real; view other cultures through lens of own culture Less understanding of other cultures, so rely on broad stereotypes Multicultural Mindset – Understand complex cultural differences Flexible, non-judgemental perception based on multiple cultural perspectives

Five Stages of Intercultural Development Monocultural Stages: Denial of Difference Polarization Minimization of Difference Multicultural Stages: 4. Acceptance of Difference 5. Adaptation to Difference

Stage One – Denial of Difference Have not interacted in depth with other cultures May avoid interaction or not be interested Overly simplistic views of other cultures; stereotypes Seem accepting (“live and let live”), but may have tendency to dehumanize outsiders.

Stage Two - Polarization Focus on differences – seen as threatening Dualistic thinking – good/bad, us/them Two Forms: Defense against difference – more critical of other culture; backlash actions, exclusion Reversal – more critical of own culture, less critical of other cultures; self-consciously avoid acting like stereotypes Can lead to selective perception – notice those who fit stereotypes

Stage Three - Minimization Accept superficial differences but assume humans are basically the same (“like me”) Commonalities defined in ethnocentric terms Own culture’s “reality” seen as universal May overemphasize physical/psychological or spiritual commonalities May overlook meaningful differences Assume differences are individual, not cultural Can lead to institutionalized privilege

Stage Four – Acceptance Recognize all cultures as equally complex, valid Cultural knowledge used to interpret behavior from multiple perspectives; less judgemental Does NOT mean person likes or approves of all aspects of each culture Can lead to “liberal paralysis” – fear of being judgmental or taking action Can “talk the talk” but not yet “walk the walk”

Stage Five - Adaptation Have mindset and skillset needed for effective intercultural communication – mental flexibility, cultural knowledge base Able to see things from others’ perspectives non-judgmentally Able to adapt behaviors to act in culturally appropriate ways

Intercultural Development Inventory Valid, reliable, self-assessment tool Accurately identifies orientation toward cultural differences identified in IDC theory People move on continuum – IDI is a “snapshot” of person at that time No right or wrong place to be – used to identify individualized training approaches to develop intercultural communication skills.