Question

• Discuss the relationship between culture and non-verbal communication. Discuss how it can be understood through the terms of technical, formal, and informal culture.
• Based on research of a particular culture (not the United States) discuss if this culture is individualistic/ collectivistic and being low context- high context culture and how non-verbal behaviors are viewed based on this.

Answer 1

Non-verbal communication takes place with the absence of any continuous words or statements. It refers to the body language and gestures involved in any communication. In simple words, it is not what is said with words but rather how it is said and expressed. Non-verbal communication involves eye contact, hand movements, facial expressions, gestures, touch, etc.

An understanding of non-verbal communication is important especially during intercultural communication. People may be wrongly offended due to cultural differences in non-verbal communication.

• Some cultures might prefer eye contact while communicating, while in some cultures it can be considered offensive. In some cultures, it signifies confidence and honesty, while in other cultures such as Asian, Middle Eastern, and Native Americans it is not considered as a respectable expression and is considered rude.   
• Similarly, nods might mean different things. If you nod for ‘yes’, other people might understand it as a ‘no’.
• Gestures such as thumbs up can be taken as an ‘Okay’ sign whereas it can be considered as vulgar in Latin American cultures. Similarly, snapping fingers to gain attention can be considered okay in some cultures while in some Middle Eastern cultures it may be offensive.
• Touches without consent are considered offensive in most cultures. Shaking hands are acceptable, though the acceptability of kisses or hugs might vary. Asian culture is more conservative in such aspects.
• Paralanguage refers to the way we communicate. Although it might not be considered as non-verbal communication in the purest sense, it holds significant value. For example, vocal tones, volume, rhythm, etc. Vocal characterization like crying, yelling, whispering, etc, can change the meaning of the message. Giggling can be a bad gesture in some cultures.

Typically, a high context culture will also display collectivism. They will place a high value on interpersonal relationships and live as a community. Countries like China and Japan display a high-context culture. They prefer personal bonds and informal agreements over worded legal documents. They look for meaning in what is not said, but rather what is displayed in the communicator’s body language. This is the reason why businessman from a low-context culture like the U.S.A. who disregards personal relationships will usually find it difficult to communicate with a Chinese or Japanese businessman. In people belonging to a high-context or collective culture, there is a shared experience that promotes understanding without the use of a lot of words.