Why is it important to know communication differences based on nationalities?

 

Why is it important to know communication differences based on nationalities? Elaborate on your answer.

The development of a person to become socially capable is a process of development that happens and develops over time. People are not automatically born as socially capable, all of us are conceived equal. In the time when we are babies the most common way infants communicate is through crying and using non-verbal communication. They cry whenever they are hungry, and they throw their bottles whenever they get angry. But as we grow from our infancy, to adolescence, and to our status as young adults. Our ability to communicate develops and in this development, we adapt the things, culture and values from our environment and society. In which adding them all together creates a nurtured identity. We become unique and inherit the culture of our family and community and be influenced by the values and beliefs of our society establishing ourselves as part of the group and the society. Building what is known as our nationality.

Nationality is defined as an ethnic concept and sociological collectivity of individuals. It pertains to the cultural identity of the person as a member of a nation. It describes the unique culture, activities, customs, traits, beliefs, and values of a person. For example, Filipinos have a unique culture from the way they speak, the way they act and the way they respond. Filipinos are known to be very kind and caring people; they are hospitable and accommodate people in need. Filipino also express in some way a great degree of respect, values personal space and are very happy people. These situations and examples mentioned reflect the meaning and values of nationality. And like Filipinos, other nationalities have their own culture and way of life most especially in communication.

In the great era of Globalization and its apparent effects to the lives of people and their culture. The advancement and innovation especially in the field of instantaneous communication, spearheaded by social media and online messaging platforms. These developments made it possible for people to connect with one another even in the other side of the planet. It enabled people to access many cultures and information about one’s nation and country. And establish a global trend and movement of intercultural communication where people alien to one’s nationality are able to communicate and interconnect with other nationalities. And amidst this intercommunication there can difficulties, barriers and cultural differences may occur.

Why is it important to know communication differences based on nationalities? One thing to keep in mind in communication is knowing who are you talking to? What is the context of situation? And what is the trait, personality, attitude, etc. of the person you are communicating with. Different nationalities have different cultures that is unique to one another there may be practices or actions that can be culturally rude on others. Like for example, in the aspect of personal space, Filipinos may find it rude if a Brazilian person were to go or stand too close when communicating most especially if that person is a stranger. In another example, kissing in the cheek may be taboo in some families and traditions.

In intercultural communication it is extremely important to be aware and be mindful of different cultures. We must assimilate and accommodate the culture of others with our own and practice cultural relativism, the concept that means we must see and respect all cultures equal to our own.

No man is an aisle, and communication is the driving force of Globalization. In this time, communicating and interacting with other cultures are inevitable. People will connect, interact, and communicate.

Keep in mind that it is important to know the differences one’s nationality. We are unique and different and the only way we can connect across cultures is to communicate. Be mindful and become culturally aware. Let us learn to respect our differences and pave a way for understanding. Culture and nationality can be a barrier for communication but if people will respect and try to understand the meanings of other cultures. There will be harmony, order, development, and peace.

In all things said, may God be praised!