Valuing diversity does not come easily. Gender, age, race,
and religion are differences within the group, which can make communication
more difficult. When assumptions and stereotypes are made they can result in
harmful, unintended consequences (76). Another reason why communication may
become difficult within a diverse group is due to the cultural environment. When
people with different backgrounds do not send messages according to the rules
of communication that we have all learned, misunderstanding begins to occur. Similar
to violating norms, consequences begin to happen – like irritation and anger. Diversity
can create more ideas for the group, but it can also create misunderstandings
within the members.
Although diversity can create misunderstandings, there are
ways to enhance a groups ability to value diversity. One way to value diversity
is to respect other cultures and their language use. Gaining knowledge about
another person’s culture allows ideas to accumulate for the group. Another way to value diversity is to
promote input and contribution. Promoting input and contribution makes people
want to commit and work harder because they know their ideas are recognized.
Diversity may be difficult to value, but with each member’s involvement the end
results are beneficial.
Hello Jasssbo, I liked your response this week. You said that when people with different background do not send messages according to the rules of communication that we have all learned, misunderstandings can occur.” I think that every culture has some similar and some different communication norms. I think your suggestion to value other cultures was a great idea. Everyone should give respect if they expect it in return. You also discussed learning more about the culture of another person because that would show two things; one, that you are interested in learning about them, and two, it shows respect. Nice work this week!
ReplyDeleteThere will always be errors in communication. It is unavoidable. However, it is something that can be accounted for and lessened. Cultural awareness courses can be found to help someone who is being submersed into a new culture be more aware of the differences in communication, be it verbal or non-verbal. In the Military, they give Soldier’s cultural awareness courses before sending them to a new station or deployment. This helps Soldier’s communicate more effectively with the natives of the area. Knowing the cultural differences, and the multiple groups and group norms within a culture are very effective for making smooth communication.
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