Identity and Intercultural Communication

Understanding Identity (Our Self-Concept) Identities are: Created through communication Created in spurts Multiple Influenced by society Dynamic Developed in different ways in different cultures

Social & Cultural Identities Gender Identity Sexual Identity Age Identity Racial and Ethnic Identity Physical Ability Identity Religious Identity Class Identity National Identity Regional Identity Personal Identity

Cultural Adaptation U-Curve Theory Phase 1: Excitement and anticipation, especially if move was voluntary Phase 2: Culture shock (disorientation, discomfort) Phase 3: Adaptation (learn rules, customs, and/or language)

Cont. Living “On the Border” (Cultural Brokers) Encapsulated Identity (torn) (Constructive Identity (thrive)

Cont. Post-Ethnicity (recent phenomenon) Identities are riven by personal identity & cultural preferences rather than race/ethnicity. Identities are fluid Willingness and ability to cross cultures How far are we from reaching a post-ethnic society?

We express our identities through: Core symbols Labels Norms

Who are you? Which identities are most important to you? Which identities do you resist? Which identities do you affirm?

WHO ARE YOU? Who are you? Which identities are most important to you? Which identities do you resist? Which identities do you affirm?