Closing the Gap David J. Galban Kennesaw State University

Study Abroad a Cross Cultural Exchange In contemporary United States society, learning to interact effectively in a diverse environment is a useful skill. Regardless of the degree that a student is pursuing, learning the multicultural aspect of American Society facilitates the transition of an individual into the “real world”.

Closing the Gap Learning to interact effectively in a diverse environment requires to know and be aware of some important concepts:  Individualism Vs Collectivism  Ethnocentrism  Empathy  Reciprocity  Cultural bias (stereotypes)

From individualism to collectivism Cultural variables (characteristics, values) in individualistic societies:  Autonomous  Independence  Self reliance  Personal achievement  Individuals are highly motivated by their own preferences and goals

From individualism to Collectivism Cultural variables (characteristics, values) in collectivistic societies:  Interdependent  Conformity  Achievement of the group (priority to the goals of the group)  Perception of time  Perception of reality

Closing the Gap Ethnocentrism: “tendency to reject and malign other ethnic groups and their members while glorifying one’s Own group”. (APA, 2009). Empathy: The ability to identify with others, to integrate others’ perspectives with our own without giving up our Own perspectives.

Closing the Gap Reciprocity “The quality of an act, process, or relationship in which one person receives benefits from another, and in return, Provides the giver with an equivalent benefit” (APA, 2009).  “Reciprocity is a social rule and comes with a sense of obligation” (R. Cialdini, 2007)  Reciprocity resulting from a sense of empathy rather than from a sense of obligation is more beneficial.  What do the communities (host families) get in return?

What can be done to narrow the gap?  Reduce the effects of the cultural shock  Increase empathy by reducing cultural bias  Minimize ethnocentrism  Reevaluating critical thinking  Increase reciprocity among students, study abroad programs, and host communities

References American Psychological Association (2009). APA concise dictionary of psychology (1 st ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychology Association. Cialdini, B. R. (2007). Influence the psychology of persuasion. New York, NY: HarperCollins. Shiraev, E. B., Levy D. A. (2010). Cross-Cultural Psychology “critical thinking and contemporary applications. Boston, MA: Pearson. Triandis, H. C. (2000) Culture and conflict. International Journal of Psychology Myers, D. G. (2007). Exploring social psychology (4 th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.

Thank you. Any questions?