After thinking the question over in my head several times “Do you find yourself communicating differently
with people from different groups and cultures?” I would have to say, no. I try
to be very respectful with anyone I am talking to. I am mindful about who I am
talking to and what might be appropriate in that situation, but as far as
respect and politeness, I communicate the same.
Different kinds of
communication are appropriate for different situations. For example, when
interacting with the parents of my students I am very careful to keep the conversation
polite and professional. I draw a line on what information about myself or my
personal life I am going to reveal to them. With a close co-worker I am polite
as well, but may reveal different aspects of my personal life that I would not
to parents.
As far as communicating with
people from groups or cultures that are different from mine, if I know what is
considered respectful in their culture, I am careful to give that respect. My
brother in law is from Bolivia and it is very common in the Hispanic culture to
hug and kiss on the cheek when you greet someone you already know, or someone
is being introduced into the family or close circle of friends. This is not something
I do with other members of the family, but I always do with him and any of his
family members. I think it is important to embrace certain practices from other
cultures as a form of respect.
Hi April,
ReplyDeleteI found this question difficult to answer because I also believe I am authentically myself when communicating with different people. However my style and choice of communication varies depending on my communication partners and my reason for communicating with them. I also agree with you that it is important to be respectful of the cultural practices and traditions of others.
Hi April
ReplyDeleteIt is very important that we are respectful when communicating with others. Different types of communication are appropriate for certain situations. One of my daughter neighbors always come over to the house when I am in town. For some reason everyone just automatically takes to me once they met me. The neighbor met me when my grandson was born, I lived in Virginia for two years to take care of him and she was pregnant also. She would come over when she saw me outside with the baby and would come over. We started visiting each other and became friendly and comfortable with each other. She had her second child when he sees me he comes to me with his hands up so I can pick him up however, I would ask mom if it is okay before I do, I would ask her is it okay for me to hug and kiss him she said it’s okay. She and other friends of my daughter and son-in-law always tell me I am the best mom for staying to take care of my grandchild for two years and come back during the year to visit. Mom shares this is why she is comfortable with me and her in-laws told me I am welcome in their home anytime. I live by the Platinum Rule: “do to others as they themselves would like to be treated” and The Golden Rule: “do to others as you would have others do unto you”.