8 of 10

Write now Article Tools

The challenges of interpreting body language messages across cultures.
The true challenge of interpreting body language messages across cultures is in the power of assumption. If I nod my head what does it mean? It could mean I agree,' or simply that I understand.' Here in lies the basic problem. A difficulty in basic communication.
The meaning that an individual brings to a communicative situation can vary according to each person's experience and prior interactions. The pragmatics therefore are very complicated and can be of hindrance or help, depending upon the analysis and arrived upon meanings.

Who can tell the meaning of an interaction with another without prior knowledge of the meaning that goes with a sign. A husband might not take out the garbage when his wife asks, or she may not answer him when he asks a question. Does this mean there was a misunderstanding in communication? Certainly not. Each may have been listening, but so concentrating on something else that they did not instantaneously respond. Yet each in turn may be upset with the other. The same may apply in interpreting body language messages across cultures. If someone from another culture does not laugh at a joke does it mean that they do not understand the joke? They may understand the joke, however not find it funny. Although this may be the case, often the reaction may be that this person is cold or not fully comprehending the pun that took place.
How much more confusing are the customary practices of family, tribe and culture. Not to mention the individualistic rituals we all like and prefer. For someone to smile, we in the western world consider the person to be happy or having joy. The truth however may be that a person is being polite to their guest or hiding the emotion that they feel. Trust, truth and the willingness to believe the integrity of another also affect how we read the body language of a person from another culture, indeed every other individual. Should the body language not match up with our own perception and perspective of what is normal,' we may not believe the words that another is saying. How much more confusing the interpretation of the body language of another of whom we have no knowledge of their culture.
In conclusion it can be said that our own misunderstandings can be blamed upon a lack of knowledge and willingness to apply it to something that we know little about. The meanings of body language messages of another culture.

Learn more about this author, Paul Knight.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The challenges of interpreting body language messages across cultures?
We want to hear your view. Write now!