People communicate differently across cultures because culture shapes values, norms, communication styles, and social expectations. These differences influence how messages are spoken, interpreted, and responded to, especially in workplaces and educational settings.
1. High-Context and Low-Context Communication
The concept of high- and low-context communication was introduced by Edward T. Hall.
High-Context Cultures
In high-context cultures, much of the message is implied rather than directly stated. People rely on shared understanding, tone, body language, and relationships.
Examples:
In India or Japan, a manager may say, “Let us review this later”, which may actually mean that the proposal is not acceptable.
Employees may avoid saying “no” directly to seniors to show respect and maintain harmony.
Silence during meetings may indicate disagreement or careful thinking, not lack of interest.
Low-Context Cultures
In low-context cultures, communication is direct, clear, and explicit. Words carry most of the meaning.
Examples:
In the USA or Germany, a manager may openly say, “This plan will not work. We need changes.”
Employees are encouraged to ask questions and express disagreement clearly.
Silence may be interpreted as lack of ideas or preparation.
2. Individualistic and Collectivistic Communication
This cultural difference is explained by Geert Hofstede.
Individualistic Cultures
Communication focuses on personal opinion and self-expression.
Examples:
In Australia or the USA, employees confidently say, “I think my approach is better.”
Students openly challenge teachers during class discussions.
Assertiveness is seen as confidence.
Collectivistic Cultures
Communication focuses on group harmony and relationships.
Examples:
In India or China, employees may say, “We can think about another way” instead of directly disagreeing.
Students may avoid questioning teachers in class as a sign of respect.
Decisions are often discussed informally before being expressed in meetings.
3. Verbal Communication Differences
Different cultures vary in formality, tone, and emotional expression.
Examples:
In Germany, formal titles and polite language are used in professional settings.
In the USA, people quickly shift to first-name basis at work.
Mediterranean cultures (e.g., Italy, Spain) use expressive speech and emotional tone.
East Asian cultures prefer calm, controlled speech.
4. Non-Verbal Communication Differences
Non-verbal cues often communicate more than words, but meanings vary across cultures.
Examples:
Eye contact:
USA → confidence and honesty
Japan/India → too much eye contact may seem disrespectful
Personal space:
Latin cultures → stand closer during conversations
Nordic cultures → prefer more distance
Gestures:
Nodding means agreement in many cultures but may simply mean listening in some Asian cultures.
5. Cultural Differences in Time Orientation
Monochronic Cultures
Time is structured and punctuality is important.
Examples:
In Germany, arriving late for a meeting is seen as unprofessional.
Meetings follow strict agendas.
Polychronic Cultures
Time is flexible and relationships are prioritised.
Examples:
In India, meetings may start late and continue longer due to discussions.
Personal conversations may interrupt work-related talk.
6. Power Distance and Communication
Power distance affects how people speak to authority figures.
Examples:
In high power-distance cultures (India, China), employees may wait for instructions and avoid openly disagreeing with seniors.
In low power-distance cultures (Denmark, New Zealand), employees freely share ideas and question managers.
Conclusion
People communicate differently across cultures due to variations in context, values, non-verbal cues, time orientation, and power relations. For effective communication in culturally diverse workplaces, it is important to understand these differences, avoid assumptions, and adapt communication styles respectfully.
This answer is suitable for M.Sc. Psychology (I/O) – BASP632, Unit II: Communication across Cultures.
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