CULTURAL DIFFERENCES

Doreen G. Fernandez wrote:

All that we consider “good human relations’ comes from the

culture. What is a good person? One who has pakikisama (good
social relations), pakiramdam (sensitivity to others needs),
pakikipagkapwa-tao (consideration to others)…. Our customs,
our crafts, our arts, the way we do things, the way we used to
do things – all can be discovery, intensely interesting….

❖ This insight illustrates the essence of what culture is all about:

- it is a way of life that is cultivated and deepened in a
community of people who share similar beliefs, values, behaviors
and goals
- Many of what we do every day, the habits we repeat, the
customs we follow are unique to our own communities

- Indeed, culture plays a significant role in the way

communication is shaped and achieved

- It forms the rules and norms that make communication either

an easy task or truly complex process
Cultural Characteristics that Shape
Communication
 In any culture, there are certain sets of behavior
that are expected and acceptable;
 there are also those that are considered
disrespectful, demeaning and therefore, deemed
inacceptable based on cultural norms and
practices
 These behaviors may have to do with how we
communicate to family members, relatives,
friends, acquaintances, and strangers
For example
 The physical gesture of “mano po” is a traditional Filipino
demonstration of respect for older people
 This gesture requires that a younger member of the family
reaches for an elder’s hand so that it may be put it on one’s
bowed forehead as a sign of humility and acknowledgement of
one’s age and position in the family. (Unique cultural
characteristics)
 Young Filipinos address older female members of the cpmmunity
as “ate” (older sister), or “tita” (aunt), and older male
members as “kuya” (older brother) or “tito”(uncle.
 Leaving party without saying goodbyes – leaving without
observing this rituals may be seen as rude to the hosts of
the gathering. One’s departure may be seen as abrupt and
inconsiderate of the host feelings and efforts in extending
hospitality.
 These habits and practices are learned through the
necessary and enjoyable interactions we experienced as
part of the community.
 Meaningful communication is not only achieved through
words and gestures in spoken and written language
 Being part of the vibrant culture mean knowing how to
communicate certain meanings in unique and special ways