Cross Cultural Communication free essay sample

Sylwia Zdziech Master of Science in International Business Economics Lazarski University Warsaw Cross-cultural Communications: A Real Challenge For Diplomats? International networking of individual, state, corporate, NGO, cultural, and social activities, intensified by the process of globalization have strengthen the need of cross-cultural communication. It is beyond doubt that culture covers the entirety of the humans life. Most human activities that are related to the societys activities are shaped by culture (Piotrkiewicz 67-68). Every culture is determined by different social odes: customs, fashion, music, society relations, linguistic norms, etc. To be more specific, when one says its history in Poland the words are associated with something important that determines peoples lives. However, when one says its history in the United States, it is perceived as something insignificant, past that has no influence on the present life (Ogonowska 12). Cross-cultural communication is an issue which frequently generates a great deal of heated debate. This includes non-verbal as well as verbal communication. Cross cultural communication also requires an understanding of a groups â€Å"do’s and taboos† and is respectful of them. This may include removing your shoes before entering ones home or understanding cultural meal etiquette. If you frequently communicate with a certain cultural group or race of people, learning about their variations in communication style will increase your understanding of that group. This is particular important when it comes to health care. I found interest in the cultural differences of Muslim Americans (part of Middle Eastern culture). When considering the healthcare needs of American Muslim patients, require open minded views from health care providers when it comes to religious practice, rituals, and traditions. Religious values and beliefs are important to this community. They are a major influence in their health care practices, expectations of health care and medical decision making. Muslims see God as the dictator and controller of health. They believe that God decides who develops certain types of cancer, who survives the ordeal and who succumbs to the disease. Their belief that a particular illness is a disease of fate greatly influences how they seek healthcare, if at all. This is because some feel they are destined to suffer while others put all of their faith in prayer. This is why it is crucial for health care providers to be sensitive to the religious beliefs of Muslim Americans. Making an effort to accommodate Muslim patients can be crucial to their health. It will increase the trust they have for the health care community. This will encourage them to seek health care, as well as be compliant to medical treatments. Certain things to consider are customs such fasting during Ramadan and their adherence to dietary restrictions. It is also important to be sensitive to the needs of females in this community. It is not acceptable for them to be examined by a male doctor. Given them a choice when it comes to gender will encourage them to seek needed health care. Proper communication skills are key to improving the health care needs of many. This includes disease awareness, along with the prevention and spread of illness. References Padela, A. , Gunter, K. , Killawi, A. (2011, June). Meeting the Healthcare Needs of American Muslims. I. S. P. U. , (), . Retrieved from http://www. ispu. org Putsch, R. W. (1985, December). The Special Case of Interpreters in Health Care. The Journal of the American Medical Association, 254(23), . Retrieved from