My work is fun and you come across many different people through out the day. I don't know why I haven't thought about writing about this family that works with me earlier in the semester but now I will.
They are two sisters and a brother and they are from Britain. They have an amazing British accent and are the nicest people (but only to people they get along with). The oldest sister's name is Nikki, the other sister is Freya and the brother is Jay.
We all love to tease them about the how they say certain American words or phrases, yet they tease us right back with our phrases.
Nikki, another person I work with Max, and I had a conversation about the word "garage". Nikki and her family pronounce it as "garriage" at first I thought they were say carriage but no they were trying to pronounce garage. We got into a "heated" discussion about the correct way to pronounce. Nikki said it is pronounced "carriage" because there is only one 'a' in the word and if there were two 'a's then it would be pronounced garage. Max replied to that by asking how she pronounced large. Her response "large". Max and I laughed and she just looked at us in a confused manner. Max said that if she pronounces large and large and there is only one 'a' then why is garage pronounced different even though it only has one 'a'. She looked at us in an evil glare and then smirked and walked away. We had made her really think about it because in reality they are similar words and are pronounced differently to her culture than they are to ours. It just really interesting to me on how their slang is different from ours.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Different parts of the state
It's interesting to drive around to different sections of the state and see the differences between the different towns and cities. For example you take the Twin Cities you have an "upper class" society who dress very business like and walk to work or take the bus or train. Then you go way up north and see a completely different society. Ones who are probably farmers or are in construction.
I remember an experience I had when I had gone to my cabin up north. The area is surrounded by different Indian Tribes. And you can just sense the differences because of how the town is decorated and how the people act. It is interesting too because there is a casino up there and they pride themselves on this casino and it's a huge thing in the area.
When I think of Native Americans I don't think about casinos I think of tribes and pow wows and things like that. It is interesting to see though what the casinos do for these tribes and how it affects the tribe. It brings money to the community and brings people to the area and in return they learn about the tribe. It also makes you think differently about the Native American people, they don't live in Tepees, they live like most people, but just have different beliefs.
I remember an experience I had when I had gone to my cabin up north. The area is surrounded by different Indian Tribes. And you can just sense the differences because of how the town is decorated and how the people act. It is interesting too because there is a casino up there and they pride themselves on this casino and it's a huge thing in the area.
When I think of Native Americans I don't think about casinos I think of tribes and pow wows and things like that. It is interesting to see though what the casinos do for these tribes and how it affects the tribe. It brings money to the community and brings people to the area and in return they learn about the tribe. It also makes you think differently about the Native American people, they don't live in Tepees, they live like most people, but just have different beliefs.
Language Barriers and Medicine
I was recently watching a television show which I love to watch: Untold Stories of the E.R. an Asian girl about ten was brought into the emergency room because she was having seizures. The family had been giving her cough medicine because the little girl was sick with a cold and had a cough.
When the parent came into the emergency room they were freaking out because they were afraid of what their daughter was experiencing and only spoke their language. They couldn't understand what the doctors were asking and the paramedic only spoke little of their language so all he understood was that the child had fell and possibly hit her head on the table. Luckily, their was a doctor on duty that night that spoke their language.
The E.R. doctor told the other doctor to ask them if she is on any medicine and what had actually happened. The family explained what had happened and after explaining what medicine she was taking for her cough the doctor decided that it was a good idea for the family to go back home and get all the medication that is in their medicine chest. After the family arrived back at the hops ital with a bag full of medicine the doctor asked them to take out the medicine that they have been giving their daughter. They pulled out a bottle that looked like a cough medicine bottle but it was actually a medicine to help prevent seizures.
While watching this it reminded me so much of the book The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down. If the family was able to speak English or if there was a doctor on duty when the medicine was prescribed it would have possibly been prevented. Things like this can easily be prevented if the hospitals see how important it is to have interpreters on duty at all time.
When the parent came into the emergency room they were freaking out because they were afraid of what their daughter was experiencing and only spoke their language. They couldn't understand what the doctors were asking and the paramedic only spoke little of their language so all he understood was that the child had fell and possibly hit her head on the table. Luckily, their was a doctor on duty that night that spoke their language.
The E.R. doctor told the other doctor to ask them if she is on any medicine and what had actually happened. The family explained what had happened and after explaining what medicine she was taking for her cough the doctor decided that it was a good idea for the family to go back home and get all the medication that is in their medicine chest. After the family arrived back at the hops ital with a bag full of medicine the doctor asked them to take out the medicine that they have been giving their daughter. They pulled out a bottle that looked like a cough medicine bottle but it was actually a medicine to help prevent seizures.
While watching this it reminded me so much of the book The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down. If the family was able to speak English or if there was a doctor on duty when the medicine was prescribed it would have possibly been prevented. Things like this can easily be prevented if the hospitals see how important it is to have interpreters on duty at all time.
Ukraine Culture
As my group researches the many different parts of the Ukraine culture, I come across so much interesting information on a culture I had no interest in before. It is interesting that when you are forced to learn about different culture, how you become wanting to learn more and more about them.
I was able to watch a video on a Ukrainian wedding and it isn't considered to but just a ceremony, it is considered a party. They have many different traditions and rituals that goes on for a long time before and after the wedding. It is so interesting to see how different it is compared to an American wedding.
Also, reading about the different foods they eat and how they make sure that they feed their guests and make sure their guests are full before they leave. The Ukrainian culture seems to be so caring to their guests. I always thought of Russians and Ukrainians to be very similar because I never really saw the difference between the cultures.
I grew up in Eden Prairie and had a lot of Russians and Ukrainians living around me. I would always notice that they wouldn't smile around people they didn't know. But when they are around one another they are always happy and smiling. I always thought it was because they were just a crabby culture and I was hesitant to be around them. I also found it interesting that they love their Vodka. Some people go as far as drinking a bottle a day. Now in our society we would consider that to be an alcoholic, but to the people of Ukraine, that is just a normal thing. One thing that I did learn that I found interesting was that they believe it to be bad luck if you shake hands with someone while standing in the doorway.
I feel that it is really important for people to research a random culture, even if they are not interested in it. If more people were forced to learn about different cultures, think how different the world would be today.
I was able to watch a video on a Ukrainian wedding and it isn't considered to but just a ceremony, it is considered a party. They have many different traditions and rituals that goes on for a long time before and after the wedding. It is so interesting to see how different it is compared to an American wedding.
Also, reading about the different foods they eat and how they make sure that they feed their guests and make sure their guests are full before they leave. The Ukrainian culture seems to be so caring to their guests. I always thought of Russians and Ukrainians to be very similar because I never really saw the difference between the cultures.
I grew up in Eden Prairie and had a lot of Russians and Ukrainians living around me. I would always notice that they wouldn't smile around people they didn't know. But when they are around one another they are always happy and smiling. I always thought it was because they were just a crabby culture and I was hesitant to be around them. I also found it interesting that they love their Vodka. Some people go as far as drinking a bottle a day. Now in our society we would consider that to be an alcoholic, but to the people of Ukraine, that is just a normal thing. One thing that I did learn that I found interesting was that they believe it to be bad luck if you shake hands with someone while standing in the doorway.
I feel that it is really important for people to research a random culture, even if they are not interested in it. If more people were forced to learn about different cultures, think how different the world would be today.
Age Differences
As I sit and look around I see many different age groups, ranging from small infants to the very elderly. I think about all the differences these people experience.
The infant has yet to be able to care for itself and the elderly have taken care of themselves for decades. There are so many differences between the age groups. The different styles of music they listen to, how they dress, what they eat, what kind of activities they participate in, their religion, their job (if they have one), among many other things.
You see the younger generation driving down the street with their windows open and their music blaring loudly making everything rumble as they drive by. Can you imagine how that generation is going to be when they are old? Are they still going to be driving down the street with their loud music? Are they still going to walk down the street with the boxers showing? Or their navel showing?
Then you look at the differences between the ages AND the different cultures. Americans have a huge impact on the younger people from different cultures. When a culture moves to the United States they may have younger kids and when those kids grow up in the U.S. they learn and are in a way pressured to fit in with their age group. I remember feeling left out when I was younger because I couldn't afford to wear these expensive brands of clothes. Just think of the pressure on a person who is already "different" because of where they came from and now they are in this place that expects people to dress "cool".
It's just interesting to see how the different cultures and their different ages interact with one another. And to think about how these generations of cultures will be in the future, will they still act the same way? Or will things that they do stop because it is deemed as "inappropriate" for that age group?
The infant has yet to be able to care for itself and the elderly have taken care of themselves for decades. There are so many differences between the age groups. The different styles of music they listen to, how they dress, what they eat, what kind of activities they participate in, their religion, their job (if they have one), among many other things.
You see the younger generation driving down the street with their windows open and their music blaring loudly making everything rumble as they drive by. Can you imagine how that generation is going to be when they are old? Are they still going to be driving down the street with their loud music? Are they still going to walk down the street with the boxers showing? Or their navel showing?
Then you look at the differences between the ages AND the different cultures. Americans have a huge impact on the younger people from different cultures. When a culture moves to the United States they may have younger kids and when those kids grow up in the U.S. they learn and are in a way pressured to fit in with their age group. I remember feeling left out when I was younger because I couldn't afford to wear these expensive brands of clothes. Just think of the pressure on a person who is already "different" because of where they came from and now they are in this place that expects people to dress "cool".
It's just interesting to see how the different cultures and their different ages interact with one another. And to think about how these generations of cultures will be in the future, will they still act the same way? Or will things that they do stop because it is deemed as "inappropriate" for that age group?
Signs
Recently I dropped my sister off at the airport and noticed a lot of different cultures around us as we were walking through to her gate. As I was looking around I was looking at the signs that were hanging in the ceiling telling people where the elevators would take you. If you look at the them they are in English but to the left of the English it is Chinese. I am curious why Chinese? Why not Spanish or German or even French? Do we get a lot of travelers from Asia? If we do, why in the world would they want to come to Minnesota? HaHa.
I just feel that if they are going to have another language used on their directional signs, then they should have many more on that sign to help others who don't speak English. Yes we are not always going to be able to get every single language on that sign, but why not put the most common languages on it? I personally feel that airports are very confusing and you can easily get turned around, but can you imagine if you were from another country, spoke none of the language in this new country and were trying to figure out where your gate is? Or where to go to get your baggage? I know I would be getting nervous if I couldn't find my way around. Airports and other international public places need to make it more easy for travelers to find their way around.
I just feel that if they are going to have another language used on their directional signs, then they should have many more on that sign to help others who don't speak English. Yes we are not always going to be able to get every single language on that sign, but why not put the most common languages on it? I personally feel that airports are very confusing and you can easily get turned around, but can you imagine if you were from another country, spoke none of the language in this new country and were trying to figure out where your gate is? Or where to go to get your baggage? I know I would be getting nervous if I couldn't find my way around. Airports and other international public places need to make it more easy for travelers to find their way around.
Language Barriers
I have touched on this subject once but I feel as though I should bring it up once again. Language barriers are a very common thing in the United States and I feel that the more cultures we allow in the United States the more we are going to experience the different types of languages.
At my work we have cleaners that come in during the morning before we open and we have cleaners that come in after we close. The main guy that cleans is very friend and always smiling but when he comes up to tell me something I have a hard time understanding him because he speaks no English and speaks only Spanish.
It is so important for people to learn another language. If I had more time I would probably try to learn Spanish being it seems it is a very common language in the United States. These language barriers cause issues for businesses because when something needs to be communicated quickly, it doesn't happen. It is very important for businesses to have an interpreter or even to make their employees learn the dominant language.
I think we see more of an issue with people who are from Mexico. They are very hard working individuals and they are just trying to make a living to support their family, but it is so important for people to be able to communicate with them.
**"The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't being said." --Anonymous
At my work we have cleaners that come in during the morning before we open and we have cleaners that come in after we close. The main guy that cleans is very friend and always smiling but when he comes up to tell me something I have a hard time understanding him because he speaks no English and speaks only Spanish.
It is so important for people to learn another language. If I had more time I would probably try to learn Spanish being it seems it is a very common language in the United States. These language barriers cause issues for businesses because when something needs to be communicated quickly, it doesn't happen. It is very important for businesses to have an interpreter or even to make their employees learn the dominant language.
I think we see more of an issue with people who are from Mexico. They are very hard working individuals and they are just trying to make a living to support their family, but it is so important for people to be able to communicate with them.
**"The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't being said." --Anonymous
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Living among different cultures
When I lived in Eden Prairie, many of my neighbors were from different cultures. I don't even remember having any "American" neighbors or friends. While I sit down and think about all of the different cultures I grew up around it made me think about a really great movie, Gran Torino.
It stars Clint Eastwood whose wife had just died and lives in a city setting. His neighbors are Hmong and he is not very happy with that. He is very racist and has many stereotypes for the different cultures that live around him. His neighborhood use to be inhabited by white families until they all moved out and the Hmong moved in. Throughout the movie he acts tough and towards the end... *Spoiler Alert** he grows close to this Hmong kid who had tried steeling his Gran Torino car. The kids mother and sister make him offer to help do yard work around Clint Eastwoods house and Clint isn't very happy about it. He makes the kid do yard work for other families on the block and with talking to this kid he grows closer and closer with the kid and his sister.
We get to experience the difficulties the Hmong community faces with other cultures and with their own. It's a great movie and I would advise anybody to see this movie because it makes you stop and think about your life and how we interact not only with other cultures, but with our own.
It stars Clint Eastwood whose wife had just died and lives in a city setting. His neighbors are Hmong and he is not very happy with that. He is very racist and has many stereotypes for the different cultures that live around him. His neighborhood use to be inhabited by white families until they all moved out and the Hmong moved in. Throughout the movie he acts tough and towards the end... *Spoiler Alert** he grows close to this Hmong kid who had tried steeling his Gran Torino car. The kids mother and sister make him offer to help do yard work around Clint Eastwoods house and Clint isn't very happy about it. He makes the kid do yard work for other families on the block and with talking to this kid he grows closer and closer with the kid and his sister.
We get to experience the difficulties the Hmong community faces with other cultures and with their own. It's a great movie and I would advise anybody to see this movie because it makes you stop and think about your life and how we interact not only with other cultures, but with our own.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Mom....
When I was about 7 years old my family and I had gone to New York for my Uncles wedding. The man he was marrying was Jewish and after the ceremony they held a party in celebration of the marriage.
On special occasions Jewish families allow their children to have a small glass of wine. When the mother asked me if I wanted a glass of wine I quickly looked at my mom in a scared look because I didn't know what to do or say. My mom said no because she didn't think it was ok for a 7 year old to have any type of alcohol. The mother didn't understand why it was such a big deal but she was fine with my moms decision because of the differences in beliefs.
This incident reminds me some of the chapters in the book when one culture thinks something is ok to do, while another culture thinks negatively about it. It is interesting though to look at where these cultures come from because you can see the differences between the cultures and look at what kind of problems their culture faces. For example, in the United States the legal drinking age is 21. But in Europe the legal drinking age is much younger. As you look at these two differences, it makes you wonder, if the United States changed the legal drinking age back to 18 would there be as much under age drinking happening? Europe does not deal with these issues because it is not as much of an issue there. In the U.S. would there still be as many accidents involving under age drinkers?
Maybe we can learn from other countries by looking at their percentages of under age drinking and compare them to the U.S. If we notice a difference maybe we could change some laws and see if it does create a difference.
On special occasions Jewish families allow their children to have a small glass of wine. When the mother asked me if I wanted a glass of wine I quickly looked at my mom in a scared look because I didn't know what to do or say. My mom said no because she didn't think it was ok for a 7 year old to have any type of alcohol. The mother didn't understand why it was such a big deal but she was fine with my moms decision because of the differences in beliefs.
This incident reminds me some of the chapters in the book when one culture thinks something is ok to do, while another culture thinks negatively about it. It is interesting though to look at where these cultures come from because you can see the differences between the cultures and look at what kind of problems their culture faces. For example, in the United States the legal drinking age is 21. But in Europe the legal drinking age is much younger. As you look at these two differences, it makes you wonder, if the United States changed the legal drinking age back to 18 would there be as much under age drinking happening? Europe does not deal with these issues because it is not as much of an issue there. In the U.S. would there still be as many accidents involving under age drinkers?
Maybe we can learn from other countries by looking at their percentages of under age drinking and compare them to the U.S. If we notice a difference maybe we could change some laws and see if it does create a difference.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Liter Water Bottle Man...
Every Monday I work nights at my job and of course being it is a movie theatre we get our regulars that come in on specific days. Well every Monday night I get this guy who is from Mexico and speaks little English.
I remember the first time ever helping him, I was at the box office selling tickets and he had said a movie and I didn't understand what he had said. I felt horrible and I always try to stay away from people who don't speak English very well only because I don't want to offend them because I don't understand what they are saying. Well when I asked him if he said he wanted this one movie he looked at me and laughed and said no, and then he repeated himself. As usual I felt like an idiot because I just made a fool of myself.
The next time I helped him was behind the concession stand and all he wanted was a Liter Water. I once again didn't understand what he said and asked him kindly to repeat. Then I finally understood what he wanted.
Now that he comes in so often I automatically get his water for him without him even having to ask. He is a nice guy and will try to start up a small conversation with me. I now am use to his accent and can understand him very easily.
I give kudos to other cultures who attempt to speak another language that is so difficult. They have much patience when it comes to Americans not understanding them and they in the end have to repeat themselves over and over again until we understand them. I'm not sure if I would have that kind of patience.
I remember the first time ever helping him, I was at the box office selling tickets and he had said a movie and I didn't understand what he had said. I felt horrible and I always try to stay away from people who don't speak English very well only because I don't want to offend them because I don't understand what they are saying. Well when I asked him if he said he wanted this one movie he looked at me and laughed and said no, and then he repeated himself. As usual I felt like an idiot because I just made a fool of myself.
The next time I helped him was behind the concession stand and all he wanted was a Liter Water. I once again didn't understand what he said and asked him kindly to repeat. Then I finally understood what he wanted.
Now that he comes in so often I automatically get his water for him without him even having to ask. He is a nice guy and will try to start up a small conversation with me. I now am use to his accent and can understand him very easily.
I give kudos to other cultures who attempt to speak another language that is so difficult. They have much patience when it comes to Americans not understanding them and they in the end have to repeat themselves over and over again until we understand them. I'm not sure if I would have that kind of patience.
Umm... this is my personal bubble...
When I had gone down to Florida a month ago to meet my fiances family, it was really nerve racking because I didn't know what kind of people they were or if they were going to like me. I am the type of person that gets really nervous and sometimes because of that, I make the situation worse than it would have been if I would have just relaxed.
When I got down to Florida I met his aunts, uncles, cousins, and of course, the grandparents. Everybody was giving me hugs and welcoming me. Yes, I will soon be a part of this family, but being it was the first time I met them it would have been nice for them just to give me a little space. I will eventually warm up to the fact that they are a very huggy family. I guess I just wasn't used to all the hugs that I got. Down in the south people seem to be very loving and sweet. I noticed a huge difference from up here.
There is also a difference between the Midwest and the east coast; especially New York City. When I had gone there for the first time it was very chaotic and busy. I wasn't used to seeing so many people walking to work or seeing so much traffic. People in NYC are in a way rude and not caring if they run into you. They don't say excuse me or anything, it is as though you are just a ghost.
It is interesting though to see such a difference in culture just within our own country with Americans, then we add into the mix other cultures that live here and they influence the different parts of the country they reside in.
When I got down to Florida I met his aunts, uncles, cousins, and of course, the grandparents. Everybody was giving me hugs and welcoming me. Yes, I will soon be a part of this family, but being it was the first time I met them it would have been nice for them just to give me a little space. I will eventually warm up to the fact that they are a very huggy family. I guess I just wasn't used to all the hugs that I got. Down in the south people seem to be very loving and sweet. I noticed a huge difference from up here.
There is also a difference between the Midwest and the east coast; especially New York City. When I had gone there for the first time it was very chaotic and busy. I wasn't used to seeing so many people walking to work or seeing so much traffic. People in NYC are in a way rude and not caring if they run into you. They don't say excuse me or anything, it is as though you are just a ghost.
It is interesting though to see such a difference in culture just within our own country with Americans, then we add into the mix other cultures that live here and they influence the different parts of the country they reside in.
Brazilian life
My sister travels a lot and I get to hear about her great experiences in other cultures. Sometimes they are not great experiences and at other times, she comes in contact with some of the nicest people.
When she went to Cambuquira, Brazil she met Ortiz. As he was walking my sister and her friends around the place they were going to investigate, he was making sure that they were all comfortable and that they didn't need anything. My sister said he was a very happy man and was always smiling and giddy. He was very welcoming and wanted to be involved with their trip there. He would make sure my sister and her group had many things to do while they were their and didn't want them to be bored. He would organize outtings for every day that they were there.
I think its really nice for different cultures to be so welcoming towards Americans. Some countries have issues with the U.S. because of the war that is going on now along with many other reasons.
I just hope that when people come to the United States that they experience just what my sister did when she went to Brazil. I hope Americans treat them with much respect and welcome them and show them how great of a country we are.
When she went to Cambuquira, Brazil she met Ortiz. As he was walking my sister and her friends around the place they were going to investigate, he was making sure that they were all comfortable and that they didn't need anything. My sister said he was a very happy man and was always smiling and giddy. He was very welcoming and wanted to be involved with their trip there. He would make sure my sister and her group had many things to do while they were their and didn't want them to be bored. He would organize outtings for every day that they were there.
I think its really nice for different cultures to be so welcoming towards Americans. Some countries have issues with the U.S. because of the war that is going on now along with many other reasons.
I just hope that when people come to the United States that they experience just what my sister did when she went to Brazil. I hope Americans treat them with much respect and welcome them and show them how great of a country we are.
It was all fate...
As I sit and think about the last chapter we had read in our class, it really makes me stop and think about the differences that different cultures face and how people react to these situations.
I never really thought about the issues that arise for couples who are in interculture relationships. Not only do they face the negativity from society, but they may also face the negativity from one anthers culture.
I sit and think of my issues that I come into contact with my fiance and after reading and thinking about the problems other people come into contact with, I see that I am one of the lucky ones that doesn't have to face societies negativity.
Intercultural couples facing society: I know with older generations, they feel as though when it comes to dating, you should date people "of your own kind". They show much negativity when it comes to couples who choose to date outside their race and culture.
My thoughts on this whole situation is: we can't change the fate in which whom we fall in love with. It randomly happens and most of the time we don't expect it to happen.
Not only do intercultural relationships include people from different cultures, but it also includes people of different ages, sex, religion, class, nationality, race, and physical ability (Martain and Nakayama, pg. 237).
A relationship is not only built on having similarities, but it is also built upon things that we learn from another. We need to balance one another out this might be with having some similarities, but also having some differences.
"Be the change you want to see in the world" - Mahatma Ghandi
I never really thought about the issues that arise for couples who are in interculture relationships. Not only do they face the negativity from society, but they may also face the negativity from one anthers culture.
I sit and think of my issues that I come into contact with my fiance and after reading and thinking about the problems other people come into contact with, I see that I am one of the lucky ones that doesn't have to face societies negativity.
Intercultural couples facing society: I know with older generations, they feel as though when it comes to dating, you should date people "of your own kind". They show much negativity when it comes to couples who choose to date outside their race and culture.
My thoughts on this whole situation is: we can't change the fate in which whom we fall in love with. It randomly happens and most of the time we don't expect it to happen.
Not only do intercultural relationships include people from different cultures, but it also includes people of different ages, sex, religion, class, nationality, race, and physical ability (Martain and Nakayama, pg. 237).
A relationship is not only built on having similarities, but it is also built upon things that we learn from another. We need to balance one another out this might be with having some similarities, but also having some differences.
"Be the change you want to see in the world" - Mahatma Ghandi
Excuse me, why are you so angry?
When I lived in Eden Prairie I had a really good friend named Ding. His family was from Asia and his parents and grandma spoke no English. I always remember when Ding and I would be playing his grandmother would come out and start yelling at him in their language. I would just be looking at her then Ding with a scared look because I didn't know what she was saying and I didn't know if he was in a lot of trouble. She would always spank Ding and his brother, and it always scared me. I always felt that they were getting into trouble because I was playing with them.
So throughout all the times him and I were friends, there were many times where she would come out yelling at him. And he would always say that he had to go inside. Now, I have come to learn that her "yelling" was actually just how their culture communicated with the younger kids. It was not because she was mad at him and he was not in trouble, it was just her being stern with him so he knew who was in charge. The spanking was seen as ok in their culture and they did not see it as child abuse, just a way to discipline.
In our society it is frowned upon to yell and spank our children. Spanking is seen as a form of child abuse. In a way I feel as though that is ridiculous, but in a way I can understand. Yes, if you are creating bruises on the child or any kind of mark, that can be considered child abuse, but if you tap the child or spank the child once in a while after they misbehave then that should be ok.
As I sit and watch "Nanny 911" the nannies believe that spanking just creates more problems and will make the child misbehave even more. They think that if you make them have time outs and get down onto the child's level to see what is wrong and why they were misbehaving, that it will solve the problems and make the child will then begin to respect you as the adult figure.
Each society has different views on how they must discipline their children and its important if you move to a different culture that you learn to understand their rules/laws so that way if you are use to doing one thing a certain way, that you change it so you wont get into trouble.
"Any child can tell you that the sole purpose of a middle name is so he can really tell when he's in trouble" --Dennis Fakes
So throughout all the times him and I were friends, there were many times where she would come out yelling at him. And he would always say that he had to go inside. Now, I have come to learn that her "yelling" was actually just how their culture communicated with the younger kids. It was not because she was mad at him and he was not in trouble, it was just her being stern with him so he knew who was in charge. The spanking was seen as ok in their culture and they did not see it as child abuse, just a way to discipline.
In our society it is frowned upon to yell and spank our children. Spanking is seen as a form of child abuse. In a way I feel as though that is ridiculous, but in a way I can understand. Yes, if you are creating bruises on the child or any kind of mark, that can be considered child abuse, but if you tap the child or spank the child once in a while after they misbehave then that should be ok.
As I sit and watch "Nanny 911" the nannies believe that spanking just creates more problems and will make the child misbehave even more. They think that if you make them have time outs and get down onto the child's level to see what is wrong and why they were misbehaving, that it will solve the problems and make the child will then begin to respect you as the adult figure.
Each society has different views on how they must discipline their children and its important if you move to a different culture that you learn to understand their rules/laws so that way if you are use to doing one thing a certain way, that you change it so you wont get into trouble.
"Any child can tell you that the sole purpose of a middle name is so he can really tell when he's in trouble" --Dennis Fakes
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Cultural Beliefs
As I sent and watch the early episodes of my favorite television show; Grey's Anatomy, it was kind of perfect timing for a specific episode. Dr. Derek "McDreamy" Shephard had this neural medical issue that had come across dealing with this early 20 year old Hmong girl. She needed brain surgery and did not want any surgery until her soul was found. She believed that if her she did not have her soul before surgery, she would die.
Dr. Shephard was frustrated because he felt that it was a simple surgery and it would change her life for the better.
This whole situation reminded me of The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman. The only difference between my episode of Grey's and the book was that Dr. Shephard was willing to try and understand why the girl was unwilling to have the surgery right away. The Doctors in the book were unwilling to understand the Hmong culture and believed that they were just being stubborn when in reality they just had a different belief system then them.
When Dr. Shephard started to understand why his patient was wanting the help of a Shaman he did all he could do. He went outside to talk to her dad and the dad at first was upset at the fact because he thought that Dr. Shephard was going to try and talk him in to making his daughter have the surgery, but Dr. Shephard surprised the dad and said that if a Shaman is needed he would have a plane fly out to get the Shaman and bring him to Seattle Grace Hospital to do a ritual to help find her soul.
I thought it was kind of cool to see a small portion of what a Shaman actually does when he begins his ritual. Too bad the Lee family could not speak English like the family in the episode, the medical treatment might have gone in a completely different direction.
Dr. Shephard was frustrated because he felt that it was a simple surgery and it would change her life for the better.
This whole situation reminded me of The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman. The only difference between my episode of Grey's and the book was that Dr. Shephard was willing to try and understand why the girl was unwilling to have the surgery right away. The Doctors in the book were unwilling to understand the Hmong culture and believed that they were just being stubborn when in reality they just had a different belief system then them.
When Dr. Shephard started to understand why his patient was wanting the help of a Shaman he did all he could do. He went outside to talk to her dad and the dad at first was upset at the fact because he thought that Dr. Shephard was going to try and talk him in to making his daughter have the surgery, but Dr. Shephard surprised the dad and said that if a Shaman is needed he would have a plane fly out to get the Shaman and bring him to Seattle Grace Hospital to do a ritual to help find her soul.
I thought it was kind of cool to see a small portion of what a Shaman actually does when he begins his ritual. Too bad the Lee family could not speak English like the family in the episode, the medical treatment might have gone in a completely different direction.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Popular Culture
Popular culture is heavily influenced by mass media. What ever we hear on the news or see on the news or in magazines or newspapers, we tend to believe it, even if the information is incorrect.
It is said that popular culture has four characteristics: "it is produced by culture industries, it is different from folk culture, it is everywhere, and it fills a social function" (Martin & Nakayama, 190).
Folk culture is a type of culture that is practiced but not for any profit.
In the beginning of chapter 7 in our book Experiencing Intercultural Communication it has a small story about this guy who wasn't very happy about the movie business creating a movie about September 11th called United 93. He felt as though it would hurt many people and that it was in a way saying that all the other planes that had crashed weren't as important because the people on those planes didn't try and stop the terrorists. He had wanted to see the movie just to see how accurately the producer and writers portrayed what had happened, but he didn't want to pay for seeing it because he didn't want to support it. I never really thought about it being a bad movie. I did however think that it would hurt people by bringing up this tragedy again and now I am really thinking twice about if it was a good idea or not for them to make a movie about this.
Another reason why I feel as though it was a bad idea is because the writers of the movie don't know exactly what had happened on the plane and that most of it was just going to be from what they assumed happened. Yes the people on United 93 tried to stop the terrorists and what they did was brave and saved many many lives, but really that's all we know about the situation. People who see the movie are going to truly think that everything that was in the movie really happened, but in reality, we don't know what happened. That's why there are lots of positive and negative aspects to what the media says and what we see in movies that are suppose to be based off a true story. Media feeds off of being biased.
It is said that popular culture has four characteristics: "it is produced by culture industries, it is different from folk culture, it is everywhere, and it fills a social function" (Martin & Nakayama, 190).
Folk culture is a type of culture that is practiced but not for any profit.
In the beginning of chapter 7 in our book Experiencing Intercultural Communication it has a small story about this guy who wasn't very happy about the movie business creating a movie about September 11th called United 93. He felt as though it would hurt many people and that it was in a way saying that all the other planes that had crashed weren't as important because the people on those planes didn't try and stop the terrorists. He had wanted to see the movie just to see how accurately the producer and writers portrayed what had happened, but he didn't want to pay for seeing it because he didn't want to support it. I never really thought about it being a bad movie. I did however think that it would hurt people by bringing up this tragedy again and now I am really thinking twice about if it was a good idea or not for them to make a movie about this.
Another reason why I feel as though it was a bad idea is because the writers of the movie don't know exactly what had happened on the plane and that most of it was just going to be from what they assumed happened. Yes the people on United 93 tried to stop the terrorists and what they did was brave and saved many many lives, but really that's all we know about the situation. People who see the movie are going to truly think that everything that was in the movie really happened, but in reality, we don't know what happened. That's why there are lots of positive and negative aspects to what the media says and what we see in movies that are suppose to be based off a true story. Media feeds off of being biased.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down
After reading Anne Fadiman's The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down it has made me realize the horror that this Hmong family went through. The book takes place in the 80's and it takes us through the Lee's experience with the American Medical field. Their youngest child Lia began to have seizures and in Hmong culture they call it The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, but to medical professionals they know it as epilepsy. Through out the book it takes you through all of the experiences of this Hmong family. It leads us through the language barriers that both the Lee's and doctors, nurses, child services, all experienced. Both cultures became very irritated with one another because they were not familiar with one anothers cultural beliefs.
Doctors had prescribed different kinds of medication for Lia and the Lee's had a very difficult time understand what the medication was for and how much and when they were suppose to give the medication. Also, when doctors tell the Hmong culture to do something or take something, they take it as just a suggestion not something necessary.
Doctors didn't ask the Hmong that had come through the Emergency room door in Merced, California how they treated themselves (Fadiman, 112).
I felt as though there was a lot of stereotyping of the Hmong culture in this book. The doctors were doing almost everything they could but still I felt as though they didn't want to get to know the Lees and to understand how they were trying to heal Lia. The doctors felt that it was a good idea to have Lia taken away from her parents because they thought that there was child endangerment going on. When really it was because the Lee's didn't understand what they were suppose to give Lia and when they were suppose to give her her medication.
A big issue in this book had to do with language barriers and how they affect different cultures.
Doctors had prescribed different kinds of medication for Lia and the Lee's had a very difficult time understand what the medication was for and how much and when they were suppose to give the medication. Also, when doctors tell the Hmong culture to do something or take something, they take it as just a suggestion not something necessary.
Doctors didn't ask the Hmong that had come through the Emergency room door in Merced, California how they treated themselves (Fadiman, 112).
I felt as though there was a lot of stereotyping of the Hmong culture in this book. The doctors were doing almost everything they could but still I felt as though they didn't want to get to know the Lees and to understand how they were trying to heal Lia. The doctors felt that it was a good idea to have Lia taken away from her parents because they thought that there was child endangerment going on. When really it was because the Lee's didn't understand what they were suppose to give Lia and when they were suppose to give her her medication.
A big issue in this book had to do with language barriers and how they affect different cultures.
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down
As I get through the chapters of The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Ann Fadiman, I never really thought about the issues with language barrier affecting people in the way it does in this book.
The book takes place in the 80's and is about this Hmong child who has seizures and her family thinks of her as a shaman. She has been brought to the ER numerous times and had been given many different types of medication that was told would control her seizure activity. Her family didn't trust the doctors and took their prescriptions as just suggestions, not something that MUST be taken as prescribed.
The number one issue with the family and the doctors is communication. The parents were unable to explain to the doctors what they thought was wrong with their daughter and what they believed to be the correct way to medicate. The doctors didn't want to deal with them because they were getting aggravated that they wouldn't follow the directions that they were given to care for their child.
It was difficult for the doctors to find interpreters for Hmong families, and without ways to communicate with them, the doctors couldn't gain their trust.
I want to get into the medical field and after reading only half of this book it made me realize that becoming a nurse or doctor isn't going to be difficult just because of the many things I need to memorize, but it's also going to be difficult because I will come across families whom I won't be able to communicate with because of the language barrier. There will sometimes be an interpreter to help me out, but sometimes I might not get one and I will have to try my hardest to communicate and gain their trust. It will be hard but I'm sure I'll be able to do it.
I couldn't imagine being a mother of a child who is having a severe medical problem and not understanding what is fully going on and why these doctors are prescribing so many different kinds of medication. Also, I would find it hard to trust the doctor if they weren't willing to take the time to understand where I am coming from and not willing to help with the language barrier. But then again, I also feel it is important for people from other countries to learn the English language, even if it isn't every single word.
I feel that it is very important for hospitals to have an interpreter for every major language. Yes that is a lot of work, but in the long run how many lives could it save?
The book takes place in the 80's and is about this Hmong child who has seizures and her family thinks of her as a shaman. She has been brought to the ER numerous times and had been given many different types of medication that was told would control her seizure activity. Her family didn't trust the doctors and took their prescriptions as just suggestions, not something that MUST be taken as prescribed.
The number one issue with the family and the doctors is communication. The parents were unable to explain to the doctors what they thought was wrong with their daughter and what they believed to be the correct way to medicate. The doctors didn't want to deal with them because they were getting aggravated that they wouldn't follow the directions that they were given to care for their child.
It was difficult for the doctors to find interpreters for Hmong families, and without ways to communicate with them, the doctors couldn't gain their trust.
I want to get into the medical field and after reading only half of this book it made me realize that becoming a nurse or doctor isn't going to be difficult just because of the many things I need to memorize, but it's also going to be difficult because I will come across families whom I won't be able to communicate with because of the language barrier. There will sometimes be an interpreter to help me out, but sometimes I might not get one and I will have to try my hardest to communicate and gain their trust. It will be hard but I'm sure I'll be able to do it.
I couldn't imagine being a mother of a child who is having a severe medical problem and not understanding what is fully going on and why these doctors are prescribing so many different kinds of medication. Also, I would find it hard to trust the doctor if they weren't willing to take the time to understand where I am coming from and not willing to help with the language barrier. But then again, I also feel it is important for people from other countries to learn the English language, even if it isn't every single word.
I feel that it is very important for hospitals to have an interpreter for every major language. Yes that is a lot of work, but in the long run how many lives could it save?
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Effect of clothing on communication
Clothing has a huge effect on how people perceive us. We can often tell when someone is from another culture or has a different religion from us. Also, it can show who has a lot of money to spend and who doesn't.
I remember when I was in school it was considered "cool" to wear clothes from expensive stores such as Abercrombie and Finch and American Eagle, etc. I of course wasn't able to afford to show at any of those stores so I didn't feel like I fit in. But now as I am older I see that brand names don't matter to me. Who cares if you can afford to buy a t-shirt for $50, when you could really buy a t-shirt almost the same style/color for $10. The only difference is that it doesn't have the stores name on it... whoop-di-doo.
I remember my first encounter with someone of another culture. It was a good friend of mine who was Muslim. In her culture she was required to cover her entire body up except for her eyes when she was out in public. When I would hang out with her, her mother would let her take off her head scarf. I thought it was so interesting. But when I found out that if she would have done that back in her country, she would have been stoned.
I've also noticed that you can tell when someone is from an Amish community. They often wear black and blue. Also, they have a specific type of hair style.
You can also tell when someone is Jewish. If they are true to their religion and follow it to the 'T' then their traditional clothing may include a prayer shawl, a Jewish hat, a kittel, etc.
When we see someone who dresses differently than us, we tend to treat them differently. Clothing has positive and negative effects on communication.
Not only does clothing have an effect on communication but so does piercings and tattoos. In our book on page 164, it shows a picture of this guy who has many facial piercings and a tattoo on his lower jaw. In some societies that would be frowned upon, but in others it holds a different meaning.
There are many different things that affect communication, whether it be how we dress, how we look, or our behaviors. We have to be aware and accommodate all of these things when we go and travel around the world, so we do not offend others.
I remember when I was in school it was considered "cool" to wear clothes from expensive stores such as Abercrombie and Finch and American Eagle, etc. I of course wasn't able to afford to show at any of those stores so I didn't feel like I fit in. But now as I am older I see that brand names don't matter to me. Who cares if you can afford to buy a t-shirt for $50, when you could really buy a t-shirt almost the same style/color for $10. The only difference is that it doesn't have the stores name on it... whoop-di-doo.
I remember my first encounter with someone of another culture. It was a good friend of mine who was Muslim. In her culture she was required to cover her entire body up except for her eyes when she was out in public. When I would hang out with her, her mother would let her take off her head scarf. I thought it was so interesting. But when I found out that if she would have done that back in her country, she would have been stoned.
I've also noticed that you can tell when someone is from an Amish community. They often wear black and blue. Also, they have a specific type of hair style.
You can also tell when someone is Jewish. If they are true to their religion and follow it to the 'T' then their traditional clothing may include a prayer shawl, a Jewish hat, a kittel, etc.
When we see someone who dresses differently than us, we tend to treat them differently. Clothing has positive and negative effects on communication.
Not only does clothing have an effect on communication but so does piercings and tattoos. In our book on page 164, it shows a picture of this guy who has many facial piercings and a tattoo on his lower jaw. In some societies that would be frowned upon, but in others it holds a different meaning.
There are many different things that affect communication, whether it be how we dress, how we look, or our behaviors. We have to be aware and accommodate all of these things when we go and travel around the world, so we do not offend others.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Language in the U.S.
Personally, I feel that even though there are many different cultures in the United States, there should only be one language used. It is so frustrating when we call a business or go to a business and the workers there don't speak English or don't even understand parts of English. For example, when I go get my nails done, the workers only speak Chinese and only understand what I want done with my nails. While I get my nails done there is no communication between the worker or I because they don't understand me and I don't understand them.
If I ever traveled out of the country, I would make sure to at least learn a few words of that language so I can get around more easily. But if I planned on living in another country that spoke another language, I would make sure to put in full effort to learn the language. It would help me better communicate with the locals. Also, there would be less chances of misunderstanding what that culture was saying.
English is a very difficult language to grasp. We have so many words, some words that are the same but have different meanings to them. It is super confusing. In the book it gave an example where this person had just moved to the states and was invited to a "potluck" party. They didn't know what a potluck was so they didn't bring anything. When they got to the party they felt embarrassed for not bringing anything. This same person was invited to a graduation party and it they were told to bring their own beer. Well when this person went to the store they found something that said "root beer". They brought this to the party and everybody started laughing. See, there are so many ways for people to misinterpret this language.
Also, with language, different cultures find it difficult to pronouncing certain words. These words are hard to say because we are unfamiliar to these words. They aren't words that we use in our everyday life, me might never use these words.
My sister travels a lot and she makes sure to learn sayings that are used in that country so that if she needs to communicate with the locals she can talk to them.
Overall, I think it is very important for people that are going to move to the United States, for them to learn English. It is almost the main language spoken here. And for them to get better jobs or to get a good education, it is very important for them to speak English.
If I ever traveled out of the country, I would make sure to at least learn a few words of that language so I can get around more easily. But if I planned on living in another country that spoke another language, I would make sure to put in full effort to learn the language. It would help me better communicate with the locals. Also, there would be less chances of misunderstanding what that culture was saying.
English is a very difficult language to grasp. We have so many words, some words that are the same but have different meanings to them. It is super confusing. In the book it gave an example where this person had just moved to the states and was invited to a "potluck" party. They didn't know what a potluck was so they didn't bring anything. When they got to the party they felt embarrassed for not bringing anything. This same person was invited to a graduation party and it they were told to bring their own beer. Well when this person went to the store they found something that said "root beer". They brought this to the party and everybody started laughing. See, there are so many ways for people to misinterpret this language.
Also, with language, different cultures find it difficult to pronouncing certain words. These words are hard to say because we are unfamiliar to these words. They aren't words that we use in our everyday life, me might never use these words.
My sister travels a lot and she makes sure to learn sayings that are used in that country so that if she needs to communicate with the locals she can talk to them.
Overall, I think it is very important for people that are going to move to the United States, for them to learn English. It is almost the main language spoken here. And for them to get better jobs or to get a good education, it is very important for them to speak English.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Sense of Self
Why is it that as a young person, I am required to develop a strong identity? Why is it not OK to develop a sense of self throughout life?
As a young person, I feel like I am unable to be independent and self reliant. At the age of twenty, I should be able to live on my own and not have to worry about relying on anyone else to help me along. I feel as though I am not allowed to make my own choices; or maybe I'm just afraid to.
In some societies, young adults are not even allowed to make their choices. It's not a matter of being afraid to, it's a matter of not being able to. In countries such as Africa, Asia, and some Latino societies young adults are required to marry certain people, have certain careers, and go to specific schools. I'm fortunate enough to live in a society where I can make my own decisions and do whatever I want. But then again that doesn't mean I can or my family would agree with some of my decisions.
Like stated in the book, Americans as soon as they turn 18 they are on their own and nobody has authority over them any more. They don't have to listen to their parents (even though they should), they can choose whatever kind of job they want, among many other kinds of decisions.
Our identities develop differently. A person may have a close connection to their family and will create an identity that has a lot of the same views that your parents may had have. Those who didn't have a close connection with their family may tend to create their own identities by what they believe is right and wrong.
My identity has been mostly encouraged by what my parents thoughts are and what their beliefs are. My parents want me to go to college and to get into a good paying career. I think in a way they want me to have these things because they were unable to have them when they were my age. A person can't just wake up one day and say this is who I am as a person. It takes years and maybe even an entire life to be able to say with confidence this is who I am.
My overall thoughts about young people creating a sense of self, it is extremely important to understand what your families beliefs are and what you as a single person believes in. Mix those two things together and throughout their life, they will be able to create a strong independent person.
As a young person, I feel like I am unable to be independent and self reliant. At the age of twenty, I should be able to live on my own and not have to worry about relying on anyone else to help me along. I feel as though I am not allowed to make my own choices; or maybe I'm just afraid to.
In some societies, young adults are not even allowed to make their choices. It's not a matter of being afraid to, it's a matter of not being able to. In countries such as Africa, Asia, and some Latino societies young adults are required to marry certain people, have certain careers, and go to specific schools. I'm fortunate enough to live in a society where I can make my own decisions and do whatever I want. But then again that doesn't mean I can or my family would agree with some of my decisions.
Like stated in the book, Americans as soon as they turn 18 they are on their own and nobody has authority over them any more. They don't have to listen to their parents (even though they should), they can choose whatever kind of job they want, among many other kinds of decisions.
Our identities develop differently. A person may have a close connection to their family and will create an identity that has a lot of the same views that your parents may had have. Those who didn't have a close connection with their family may tend to create their own identities by what they believe is right and wrong.
My identity has been mostly encouraged by what my parents thoughts are and what their beliefs are. My parents want me to go to college and to get into a good paying career. I think in a way they want me to have these things because they were unable to have them when they were my age. A person can't just wake up one day and say this is who I am as a person. It takes years and maybe even an entire life to be able to say with confidence this is who I am.
My overall thoughts about young people creating a sense of self, it is extremely important to understand what your families beliefs are and what you as a single person believes in. Mix those two things together and throughout their life, they will be able to create a strong independent person.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Family History
Reading through the chapter it made me really think about who I am. Where did my ancestors come from? What kind of jobs did they have and what kind of environment did they live in. My heritage includes Norwegian and Irish mainly, then we have bits of German and Polish.
I've always had a fascination with Ireland. Never really knew why, just felt as though I was drawn to that country. When I was older and I could understand more things I thought it was awesome that I was part Irish. Ireland just seems like one of those places that would be interesting to live in. The landscapes are beautiful and the people there seem as though they would be the nicest people in the entire world.
I feel it is really important for us to know as much as possible about ourselves so that we wont be quick to judge other cultures. If we are unaware of who we are as a culture, then we may be more quick to judge what other cultures do. we might find it weird that one culture doesn't recognize Christmas. If we are not sure why we even celebrate it, then what makes it ok for us to judge that culture that doesn't celebrate it.
Like the book says, a lot of times our family history is not written down, but rather told through stories to generation to generation. Our family history is unique to us, but to other people, our personal family history may be boring. A person's family history occurs at the same time as other people's history/ our countries history.
It's also important to know about our family history because of medical purposes. Think of all of the lives that may be saved if we were able to track down our families medical record and see what kind of diseases were in our blood line. We might be able to treat these disease early on. Or even test a person for them early enough where they could possibly be cured.
Not only is it important to learn about our families history, but also to learn about our countries history. Mostly, we learn about the good that happened in our nation. But it is also important to learn about the bad things that have happened so that way we can learn from the mistakes that we made. Hopefully, learning from these mistakes, we wont make them again.
The only time I remember learning about another culture was in the Spanish class and in my Comparative Religions class. There really isn't that many classes out there that teach you about other cultures. If there were, I think there would be less stereotyping and less stupidity. If you really think about it there are many different types of histories out there. Not only does it have to deal with our countries history, but also with our society and what everyone has gone through such as sexual orientation histories, racial and ethnic histories, etc.
History is so interesting to us, yet it is so difficult to find records about our family. And often they aren't willing to give us records. It kind of makes you wonder how difficult it will be for future generations to figure out about their ancestry...
I've always had a fascination with Ireland. Never really knew why, just felt as though I was drawn to that country. When I was older and I could understand more things I thought it was awesome that I was part Irish. Ireland just seems like one of those places that would be interesting to live in. The landscapes are beautiful and the people there seem as though they would be the nicest people in the entire world.
I feel it is really important for us to know as much as possible about ourselves so that we wont be quick to judge other cultures. If we are unaware of who we are as a culture, then we may be more quick to judge what other cultures do. we might find it weird that one culture doesn't recognize Christmas. If we are not sure why we even celebrate it, then what makes it ok for us to judge that culture that doesn't celebrate it.
Like the book says, a lot of times our family history is not written down, but rather told through stories to generation to generation. Our family history is unique to us, but to other people, our personal family history may be boring. A person's family history occurs at the same time as other people's history/ our countries history.
It's also important to know about our family history because of medical purposes. Think of all of the lives that may be saved if we were able to track down our families medical record and see what kind of diseases were in our blood line. We might be able to treat these disease early on. Or even test a person for them early enough where they could possibly be cured.
Not only is it important to learn about our families history, but also to learn about our countries history. Mostly, we learn about the good that happened in our nation. But it is also important to learn about the bad things that have happened so that way we can learn from the mistakes that we made. Hopefully, learning from these mistakes, we wont make them again.
The only time I remember learning about another culture was in the Spanish class and in my Comparative Religions class. There really isn't that many classes out there that teach you about other cultures. If there were, I think there would be less stereotyping and less stupidity. If you really think about it there are many different types of histories out there. Not only does it have to deal with our countries history, but also with our society and what everyone has gone through such as sexual orientation histories, racial and ethnic histories, etc.
History is so interesting to us, yet it is so difficult to find records about our family. And often they aren't willing to give us records. It kind of makes you wonder how difficult it will be for future generations to figure out about their ancestry...
Sunday, February 1, 2009
The Imperatives of Intercultural Communication
Like the book states it, "We live in a rapidly changing global environment where intercultural interaction is a fact of life" (2).
Now I'm thinking to myself... "Why do I have to learn about intercultural communication, I know how people interact with one another." But do I really understand? Do I really know what all is involved within the complexities of intercultural communication. Umm... probably not.
In the book it gives us six reason for why we may choose to study intercultural communication. The first described is The Peace Imperative. This issue asks the question "Can individuals of different genders, ages, ethnicity's, races, languages, and religions peacefully coexist on the planet?" (3). I believe they can if they put in the effort. We aren't animals where we need to fight to survive. People may think so, but me on the other hand, I think we can live peacefully without war and all of this animosity towards different cultures. If we don't have a certain amount of peace, there will be a constant power struggle and this in the end will cause it to be impossible to live with one another.
The second Imperative is Economic Imperative. This is very important for businesses. Mostly larger businesses. I myself, don't have to worry about this really with my current job. We don't deal with businesses that are overseas. Globalization was discussed within this section and it is a word given to businesses that expand into overseas markets to do business. I really don't know that much about this type of imperative and I hope that the more that we discuss more and more cultures and how they coexhist with us, that it will give me a better picture of what all is involved within this section of intercultural communication.
Technological Imperative is the next one discussed. Global village was brought up and it means a world that uses televisions, radios, etc. and when these are used they are used to bring news and information to remote places of the world. Technology is a huge thing now a days. I don't think we could do anything without useing some sort of technology. Almost all of us use a cell phone. We text constantly especially my age group. I send up to 5,000 texts a month and recieve almost the same amount if not more. I find it easier to send quick text rather than call the person. A lot of our electronics are made in other countries. And without these electronics it would be difficult to manage; especially for businesses.
Demographic Imperative are the characteristics of a given population. This one is truely boring to me, so I'm going to leave it at that for now or until my next blog.
Self-awareness Imperative is probably one of the most important to me. I find it important for us to be aware of who we are as a culture so we can teach others and learn from others. If we are are aware of our own culture and are open to learn about others then we can be less judgemental of others. We should know where we come from and what our beliefs really mean and what are values are. If we are educated on our culture then we become more aware of other cultures. We will be more willing to recognize the differences such as different religions, holidays, and clothing along with many many other things.
Lastly is Ethical Imperative each culture has their rights and wrongs. We may not agree with them, but we must live with these differences. Now when I say whats "right" and whats "wrong" those rights and wrongs may be complete opposite of what others think. Some cultures think its right for people to have kids at the age of 15, while others feel that is wrong and one should wait until they are in a stable relationship and in their mid twenties. A really good example was given in the book and this is what it said "the Ten Commandments teach that it is wrong to steal, tell a lie, commit murder..." (17). As a child I was taught that it's wrong to steal, lie, and hurt others. These values or beliefs could be different in other cultures.
So, in the end I come to realize that this is why it is important to be educated in various cultures.
Now I'm thinking to myself... "Why do I have to learn about intercultural communication, I know how people interact with one another." But do I really understand? Do I really know what all is involved within the complexities of intercultural communication. Umm... probably not.
In the book it gives us six reason for why we may choose to study intercultural communication. The first described is The Peace Imperative. This issue asks the question "Can individuals of different genders, ages, ethnicity's, races, languages, and religions peacefully coexist on the planet?" (3). I believe they can if they put in the effort. We aren't animals where we need to fight to survive. People may think so, but me on the other hand, I think we can live peacefully without war and all of this animosity towards different cultures. If we don't have a certain amount of peace, there will be a constant power struggle and this in the end will cause it to be impossible to live with one another.
The second Imperative is Economic Imperative. This is very important for businesses. Mostly larger businesses. I myself, don't have to worry about this really with my current job. We don't deal with businesses that are overseas. Globalization was discussed within this section and it is a word given to businesses that expand into overseas markets to do business. I really don't know that much about this type of imperative and I hope that the more that we discuss more and more cultures and how they coexhist with us, that it will give me a better picture of what all is involved within this section of intercultural communication.
Technological Imperative is the next one discussed. Global village was brought up and it means a world that uses televisions, radios, etc. and when these are used they are used to bring news and information to remote places of the world. Technology is a huge thing now a days. I don't think we could do anything without useing some sort of technology. Almost all of us use a cell phone. We text constantly especially my age group. I send up to 5,000 texts a month and recieve almost the same amount if not more. I find it easier to send quick text rather than call the person. A lot of our electronics are made in other countries. And without these electronics it would be difficult to manage; especially for businesses.
Demographic Imperative are the characteristics of a given population. This one is truely boring to me, so I'm going to leave it at that for now or until my next blog.
Self-awareness Imperative is probably one of the most important to me. I find it important for us to be aware of who we are as a culture so we can teach others and learn from others. If we are are aware of our own culture and are open to learn about others then we can be less judgemental of others. We should know where we come from and what our beliefs really mean and what are values are. If we are educated on our culture then we become more aware of other cultures. We will be more willing to recognize the differences such as different religions, holidays, and clothing along with many many other things.
Lastly is Ethical Imperative each culture has their rights and wrongs. We may not agree with them, but we must live with these differences. Now when I say whats "right" and whats "wrong" those rights and wrongs may be complete opposite of what others think. Some cultures think its right for people to have kids at the age of 15, while others feel that is wrong and one should wait until they are in a stable relationship and in their mid twenties. A really good example was given in the book and this is what it said "the Ten Commandments teach that it is wrong to steal, tell a lie, commit murder..." (17). As a child I was taught that it's wrong to steal, lie, and hurt others. These values or beliefs could be different in other cultures.
So, in the end I come to realize that this is why it is important to be educated in various cultures.
Barriers and differences in different cultures
Thinking back through my life I haven't really been able to think of a time in which I wasn't friends with someone from another culture. When I lived in Eden Prairie for 10 years four of my best friends were from another culture. One was from Russia, another from Somolia, and two were from Korea.
I remember my friend Ding who was from Korea would always be yelled at my his grandmother. I never really understood why until later in life when I found out that the way the grandmother was talking to him was just another way that they would communicate. To me I always thought that he was in trouble. My friend Shamso lived with her mom and brothers. She had like 4 brothers I think and her mother couldn't afford a bigger apartment so Shamso had to stay in the same room with her brothers. I always wondered why because I remember my mom saying that it wasn't right for girls to stay in the same room as boys. But in Shamso's culture it was ok.
I think it's interesting learning about different cultures. Understanding why cultures do things a certain way helps me better understand it and helps me with not judging them right away. I do admitt to judging people very quickly, but since I've started learning about other cultures and reading up on certain cultures I've noticed that I'm not as quick to judge as I was once before.
It's also very important for one to learn other languages. Me, I attempted to learn Spanish and after being in the class for 3 years found that I was just getting more and more confused. I assume this is how it is for others when they are attempting to learn English. This is one of the most complex languages out there along with Japennese. My boyfriend took a Japanese class and said it is so difficult, but he was able to remember some of the catch phrases.
In the book, it gives what the most common definition of Intercultural Communication is, "...occur when people of different cultural backgrounds interact..." (27). As of right now I have to admit that this is what I feel the definition is. Over the course of this semester I hope to create a better definition of what Intecultural communication truely is. The book goes on to say that for one to completly understand the meaning of Intercultural Communication ones needs to understand the root words of it, culture and communication. These are the building blocks of this word and once one has these two words down to a science, then they will figure out the true meaning behind intercultural communication.
The core of intercultural communication is culture. I believe that it is important for one to first understand their culture. If you are unsure about your own culture, how will you be able to understand another? I think it's also cool when you can teach others about your culture, not only will you be able to teach them your beliefs but you will also be able to carry on your beliefs into the future.
When I first hear the word culture what comes to mind...(thinking)... well, possibly music, art, dance, people from another country. But do I think about the patterns of perceptions and the values and behaviors of other cultures? Possibly, but not likly right away will I think of these things. Culture defined in the book is "... learned patterns of perception, value, and behaviors, shared by a group of people, that is also dynamic and heterogeneous. We learn culture. There is no other way of it coming to us. We see how our family lives, we learn from them what we need to do, how we need to act, speak, etc. Family is the largest influence on us, along with our friends and lastly society. People feel as though it is important for them to act like, lets say... celebrities. Me, I could careless what Paris Hilton or Lindsey Lohan is doing. I'm ME and not THEM. I'm going to act the way that my family taught me; being a responsible adult.
Cultural groups share perceptions. How? Well, the book describes culture as a lens. Looking through that lens is how we view the world. By our every day experiences we then create an interpretation of what we have learned. That interpretation is created by past experiences that is already stored in our brain.
Overall, my ultimate goal for the rest of the semester is to figure out ways to understand other cultures. From there I can compair them to my culture and possibly learn a thing or two and incorporate them into my life. That would be kind of fun...
I remember my friend Ding who was from Korea would always be yelled at my his grandmother. I never really understood why until later in life when I found out that the way the grandmother was talking to him was just another way that they would communicate. To me I always thought that he was in trouble. My friend Shamso lived with her mom and brothers. She had like 4 brothers I think and her mother couldn't afford a bigger apartment so Shamso had to stay in the same room with her brothers. I always wondered why because I remember my mom saying that it wasn't right for girls to stay in the same room as boys. But in Shamso's culture it was ok.
I think it's interesting learning about different cultures. Understanding why cultures do things a certain way helps me better understand it and helps me with not judging them right away. I do admitt to judging people very quickly, but since I've started learning about other cultures and reading up on certain cultures I've noticed that I'm not as quick to judge as I was once before.
It's also very important for one to learn other languages. Me, I attempted to learn Spanish and after being in the class for 3 years found that I was just getting more and more confused. I assume this is how it is for others when they are attempting to learn English. This is one of the most complex languages out there along with Japennese. My boyfriend took a Japanese class and said it is so difficult, but he was able to remember some of the catch phrases.
In the book, it gives what the most common definition of Intercultural Communication is, "...occur when people of different cultural backgrounds interact..." (27). As of right now I have to admit that this is what I feel the definition is. Over the course of this semester I hope to create a better definition of what Intecultural communication truely is. The book goes on to say that for one to completly understand the meaning of Intercultural Communication ones needs to understand the root words of it, culture and communication. These are the building blocks of this word and once one has these two words down to a science, then they will figure out the true meaning behind intercultural communication.
The core of intercultural communication is culture. I believe that it is important for one to first understand their culture. If you are unsure about your own culture, how will you be able to understand another? I think it's also cool when you can teach others about your culture, not only will you be able to teach them your beliefs but you will also be able to carry on your beliefs into the future.
When I first hear the word culture what comes to mind...(thinking)... well, possibly music, art, dance, people from another country. But do I think about the patterns of perceptions and the values and behaviors of other cultures? Possibly, but not likly right away will I think of these things. Culture defined in the book is "... learned patterns of perception, value, and behaviors, shared by a group of people, that is also dynamic and heterogeneous. We learn culture. There is no other way of it coming to us. We see how our family lives, we learn from them what we need to do, how we need to act, speak, etc. Family is the largest influence on us, along with our friends and lastly society. People feel as though it is important for them to act like, lets say... celebrities. Me, I could careless what Paris Hilton or Lindsey Lohan is doing. I'm ME and not THEM. I'm going to act the way that my family taught me; being a responsible adult.
Cultural groups share perceptions. How? Well, the book describes culture as a lens. Looking through that lens is how we view the world. By our every day experiences we then create an interpretation of what we have learned. That interpretation is created by past experiences that is already stored in our brain.
Overall, my ultimate goal for the rest of the semester is to figure out ways to understand other cultures. From there I can compair them to my culture and possibly learn a thing or two and incorporate them into my life. That would be kind of fun...
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