Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Cross-Cultural Communication October 2009

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 2 What is culture?  Culture is: –Our way of life –Our set of values –Our beliefs and views of the world

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 3 Cultural groups  We all belong to many cultures based on: –Our ethnic background –Our gender –Our career or workplace –Our sexual orientation –Our religion Can you list some cultural groups you belong to?

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 4 Why care about culture?  Understanding a person’s cultural background: –Can help prevent misunderstandings –Helps us learn what is important to the other person –Sets the stage for better communication –Helps us better understand the other person’s behavior

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 5 Cultural diversity  When people from different cultures meet, there is opportunity for: –Learning –Sharing –Conflict –Misunderstanding –Communication and miscommunication

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 6 Mutual respect holds the key  Respect can have different meanings for different people  What does respect mean to you? –Examples: –Being acknowledged (e.g., being greeted when you enter a room) –Included in conversations in the breakroom –Getting help from co-workers –Having others ask your opinion –Being treated like an adult

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 7 Beware of assumptions  Assumptions are automatic judgments we make about others.  Problem with assumptions –They may be wrong –They often block communication –They interfere with relationships

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 8 Communicating across cultures  Keep an open mind and avoid prejudging  Treat others as you would like to be treated  Be a good listener  Show interest in another’s viewpoint, culture, opinions

Copyright © 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. October 2009Cross-Cultural Communication 9 As a CNA… Communicating effectively with co-workers and residents from other cultures will help you to:  Provide better care  Enjoy your work more!