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Body Language & Cultural Norms

11 April 2009 12 Comments

A dog wags its tail when it is happy.  A cat wags its tail when it is angry or upset.   Is it any wonder they don’t get along?

Most of us assume we are understood, that we understand others-  that when words are communicated carefully, accurate meaning is conveyed.  Most of us further believe that our actions speak as plainly as words.   But actions can be fuzzy.

Cultural differences impact actions.  And actions are understood in the context of cultural norms.  Unlike the translation of words, the cultural norms supporting actions are not conveyed.  Meaning associated with unspoken communications  such as body language, gestures and stance is often misunderstood.

Case in point:  When a tall, handsome and powerful Iraqi friend (let’s call him Wassam) kissed my hand and looked into my eyes, I believed he had aims to make me his second or third wife.  Many months later, in reading a book about cultural nuances in Iraq, I learned that this gesture is simply a sign of respect.

Imagine my disappointment.

12 Comments »

  • SergeyNikolaev said:

    who are you? My sis is doing good I guess, shes trouble as always!

    # 31 July 2009 at 2:41 am
  • MishaPowerauto said:

    Amazing news, thank you!
    blog.ensig.com – cool!!!!

    # 1 August 2009 at 7:14 am
  • Zashkaser said:

    This is an excellent review.

    # 6 August 2009 at 12:22 am
  • LenaShopogolik said:

    Nice site. go to my favorites. TNx

    # 6 August 2009 at 10:19 am
  • Sdanektir said:

    Ack, my comment didn’t come out the way I’d liked it to.

    # 6 August 2009 at 7:56 pm
  • VitalikGromovss said:

    The article is ver good. Write please more

    # 8 August 2009 at 6:39 pm
  • dimagromovfoto said:

    Hey, if I were currently immersed in writing a book explaining set theory, it would have sounded like that to me too, I’m sure.

    # 16 August 2009 at 7:34 am
  • doctorbiml said:

    Your blog was of course amazing again even though it was terrifying for me to read what happened to you.You turned what could have been a very bad thing into something funny and positive. Do take care. Also your live radio news broadcast was also amazing.I love you xoxox

    # 24 September 2009 at 10:36 pm
  • BymnheemIevew said:

    Hey, if I were currently immersed in writing a book explaining set theory, it would have sounded like that to me too, I’m sure.

    # 1 October 2009 at 2:29 am
  • lokyrte said:

    Такое найти и написать сложно, информация очень полезна для начинающих 🙂

    # 13 October 2009 at 10:52 am
  • homemastergoga said:

    Its really something straight from heart…..and this book is the best way to share ur feeling for khushi and to remember her…
    blog.ensig.com – go to my favorites!!!

    # 31 October 2009 at 6:40 am
  • Hoilortewyu said:

    Такое найти и написать сложно, информация очень полезна для начинающих 🙂

    # 9 November 2009 at 11:44 am