Non-Verbal Communication In Different Cultures Essay Examples

In the article, ‘Meaning of Feet,’ the Congressman mistakes in his handling of negotiation with Saddam illustrates the effect of the differences in non-verbal communication. In Arabian culture, crossing of legs and showing the sole to the host, is considered an offence. In American culture, crossing of legs is simply another way of sitting. It is also unacceptable to grab the host’s arm in greeting; one is expected to wait for the host to offer his hand or arm. In ‘Different Sense of Space,’ we see how Americans and Mexicans perceive space differently. While American’s maintain individual space and distance, Mexicans are oriented in togetherness, closeness and family. While Americans guarded individual space, they are open to relations with outsiders and the larger group; Mexicans on the hand preserve the family or close group space.
In Crouch’s article, the respect of individual caused the misunderstanding in cultural differences. The Mexicans have a more welcoming attitude and do not mind sharing their space with the next person. Americans on the other hand prefer to be left alone, not because they are hostile but because there is a safe distance to be kept between one person and the next. The American interprets the gesture of a friendly Mexican as an intrusion and in response opts to move away to maintain that distance. The Mexican on the other hand, interprets this as his mistake, offending the American or he being brown skinned.
These differences in culture create misunderstandings since people respond to them differently. The reaction by one person, who does not understand a particular culture, might be offensive to the next person. It is important for people to have a basic understanding of the differences in non-verbal communication between cultures. This is especially important for those travelling to a different place and especially for business purposes. It is also advisable to inquire from the people what is acceptable and what is not. Also learn from them how they interact with people in different settings.