Do you find yourself communicating differently with people
from different groups and cultures?
Yes, I find myself communicating differently with people
from different groups and cultures. Living
in a culture that is different from my own can be both challenging and pleasurable. Regardless of what culture you are from it is
mutual to go through an adjustment. In
fact, our values and traditions can be very different, as well as our beliefs
about several things. We as individuals experience
different principles in growing up. Understanding
cultural differences has to do with recognizing yourself as a cultural being
and coming to understand that the way you see the world, organize your behavior
and look at children are, to a great extent, influenced by our own culture,
which also may have been influenced by your training (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010).
Therefore, when people move to another culture, they naturally
convey their background and way of living with them, and this can help adjust
to their new atmosphere. For example,
some people may quickly adapt to a different culture while others may struggle
considerably. Then there may be a
feeling of misperception and anxiety that may occur in an inexperienced
area. Adjusting to a new culture will
become an ongoing progression. It may be
challenging at times, but most people reach a decision that is going through some
changes can help them absorb more about themselves and develop a greater
confidence in their ability to steer new situations.
Reference
Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating
and working with diverse families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education,
Inc.
I agree with you that when people move from their culture into another there is an adjustment period. That is the reason I feel that we who are servicing these families must do it to the best our abilities. Doing things to help the transitional period easier.
ReplyDeleteDebbie
“Cultural being and coming to understand that the way you see the world, organize your behavior and look at children are, to a great extent, influenced by our own culture, which also may have been influenced by your training” (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010).this quote is so right. When Culture and training play a huge role in the way you communicate and the way you look at the world.
ReplyDeleteBarbara
ReplyDeleteYou are right you do need a period of adjustment moving from one culture to another and this is not something that is automatic. Working with children and families we need to let them know that during this transition period it’s ok because it can be difficult learning to navigate the new culture.
HI Barbara,
ReplyDeleteWhen I know someone from a different culture will be attending my school, I try to learn about their culture. Anything new can be scary for people, especially when children are involved. I like to try and have things that are familiar to them when they first start so that they feel we care and want them to feel accepted and wanted. Whether it be toys, food or learning a few words from their home language. I try to do anything that will make them feel welcome.