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Comparing Cultural Norms and Values

Aspects of Culture

Mainstream American Culture

Other Cultures

1. Sense of self and space

Informal, Handshake

Formal Hugs, bows, handshakes

2. Communication and language

Explicit, direct communication Emphasis on content--meaning found in words

Implicit, indirect. communication. Emphasis on context--meaning found around words

3. Dress and appearance

"Dress for success" ideal. Wide range in accepted dress

Dress seen as a sign of position, wealth, prestige. Religious rules

4. Food and eating habits

Eating as a necessity--fast food

Dining as a social experience. Religious rules

5. Time and time consciousness

Linear and exact time consciousness. Value on promptness-->time = money

Elastic and relative time consciousness. Time spent on enjoyment of relationships

6. Relationships, family, friends

Focus on nuclear family. Responsibility for self. Value on youth, age seen as handicap

Focus on extended family. Loyalty and responsibility to family. Age given status and respect

7. Values and norms

Individual orientation. Independence Preference for direct confrontation of conflict

Group orientation. Conformity. Preference for harmony

8. Beliefs and attitudes

Egalitarian. Challenging of authority. Individuals control their destiny. Gender equity

Hierarchical. Respect for authority and social order. Individuals accept their destiny. Different roles for men and women

9. Mental processes and learning style

Linear, logical, sequential, Problem-solving focus

Lateral, holistic, simultaneous. Accepting of life's difficulties

10. Work habits and practices

Emphasis on task. Reward based on individual achievement. Work has intrinsic value

Emphasis on relationships. Rewards based on seniority, relationships. Work is a necessity of life

SourceThe Managing Diversity Survival Guide: A Complete Collection of Checklists, Activities, and Tips/Book and Disk, by Lee Gardenswartz and Anita Rowe




Main | Course Syllabus | Supplementary Readings | Learning Analysis Journal
Course Handouts and Other Items of Interest | -ISM (N.) Video Documentary Project