Different cultural backgrounds may bring about different perspectives among individuals. The first area where disparities may emerge is in communication or messaging. The language used in different cultures may present challenges when it comes to interpretation or misunderstanding. This is because communication barriers emerge which may strain ties or relationships. Our perceptions may also differ from others when it comes to how we interpret different behaviors exhibited by others. This mostly stems through the use of body language and other conduct which may cause confusion. For instance, in the U.S eye contact is deemed essential in communication while in Asian countries it is usually interpreted as a sign of disrespect. Another divergence in perceptions based on the cultural background can be observed in cases where stereotypes prevail. These assumptions shape interactions. In some scenarios, uncorrected stereotypes may brew animosity among different individuals. Beliefs may also influence one’s perceptions of another individual that subscribes to a different culture. This is because beliefs are deep-rooted and are hard to change even in a multicultural setting.
There are a number of experiences that may lead to differences in cultural perspectives such as social standing, education, personality, religion, past experiences, belief structure, political views, and conflict. A good example of different experiences that exhibit differing perceptions based on culture is dressing. In many Asian countries, women are required to dress modestly with womenfolk urged to expose much of their skin. This means that short dresses and skirts, as well as low-cut blouses or tops, are not tolerated in these societies. Asian women mostly don loose-fitting dresses as opposed to figure-hugging ones. An American woman may suffer culture shock on arriving in any Asian country. This means she will have to do away with her liberal dressing which borders on short dresses, figure-hugging attires as well as midriff bearing tops. The liberal dressing may generate hostility, awe and even undue attention from the locals who may fail to appreciate the cultural disparities.
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The different perceptions stemming from cultural differences may be a product of top-down processing. This is because much of cultural perspectives are founded on prior knowledge or experiences ingrained in an individual within a society. As such, individuals try to make inferences on prevailing circumstances. The context of any scenario or situation enables an individual to interpret the prevailing circumstances. As such, many people do not put much thought into a particular element but rather to make sense or piece information by alluding to the personal experiences or understanding of circumstances. A good example is the use of gestures in broken speech. When interacting with a member of a different ethnicity he or she may fail to provide the right wording in a speech, but with the accompanied use of gestures a listener can effectively put into context or hypothesize the intended message. As such, communication may continue between the two parties seamlessly despite the challenges faced by the speaker.
Acknowledging different cultural perspectives is fundamental in my workplace. This is because it promotes healthy relations borne out of mutual respect and understanding. It also enhances sensitivity which is integral in ensuring that one take’s into account his or her actions, words or behavior towards another individual drawn from a different cultural background. It also ensures that in the workplace the best of each culture is tapped into to create the much-needed synergy which may promote productivity and overall good working atmosphere. The cultural disparities also offer a learning pool for different people at the workplace. Each culture has its unique values and assertions which can promote the exchange of information which is beneficial to all.
