Cross Cultural

Understanding
STKIP PGRI – Sidoarjo
Class 8
Review & Discussion of chapters 1 to 5
Beyond Language – Cross Cultural Communication
Deena Levine and Mara B. Adelman (2nd Edition 1993)
 Chapter 1 – Cross-Cultural
Contact with Americans
1. Observations in Another Culture

What people observe/see and how they interpret (make sense of

it) these observations are influenced by both culture and personal
biases. If you live or visit another country, being able to observe
(objectively)will help you understand the culture better.
Communication plays a huge role in understanding.

2. What are some observations of another culture?

a. Many children move out from their parents house whne they are 18
years old.
b. Wearing shoes indoors good or bad?
 Chapter 2 – Cross-Cultural
Conflicts & Adjustment
1. What are some expressions which describe culture shock &
coming into contact with a new culture?
a. “A fish out of water”
b. “Roller-coaster ride”

2. Stages of Adjustment in a New Culture

a. Honeymoon period
b. Culture Shock
c. Initial Adjustment
d. Mental isolation/ depression
e. Acceptance/integration
 Chapter 3 – Verbal
Communication, The Way
People Speak
1. Does culture influence the way people speak?
a. Direct/ Indirect conversation
b. Hesitant/Heated conversations
 Chapter 4 – Nonverbal
Communication, Speaking
Without Words
1. What are some examples of nonverbal
conversation?
a. Hand gestures
b. Eye contact
c. Shoulder Shrugs
e. Sighs
 Chapter 5 – Relationships:
Friends & Acquaintances
1. Is Friendship and Friendliness the same?
a. Friendship is built over a period of time
b. Friendliness is when you are polite and nice to
anyone. They can even be a stranger who you have
never met and will never meet again.

2. Never misinterpret friendliness as an offer of

friendship. It can cause misunderstandings,
expectations and conflicts. Always be objective (see
glossary for meaning)
 Reading
Beyond language - Cross Cultural Communication by
Deena Levine and Mara B. Adelman (2nd Edition 1993)
 Glossary
•Objective: (of a person or their judgment) not
influenced by personal feelings or opinions in
considering and representing facts.