Cross Cultural Conflict

‘The more people fail to communicate to each other, the more they develop personal assumptions that could lead to conflict.’ (aipc.com, 16/02/14)

There are many issues which may arise in regard to cross-cultural conflict, from both sides of the interaction. It is acknowledged, for instance, that this writer, like everyone else, has his own preconceptions that will influence how he processes data and behave, and which are primarily due to the ‘accident’ of his cultural up-bringing. These ‘prejudices’ may influence the way he works with others, especially if they go unrecognised by him.

Fortunately, there are known and effective ways to resolve conflict which take cultural considerations into account. Also, such conflict can be reported to and discussed with supervisors, and if necessary, there is further assistance which can be provided. (Open Colleges 2011, p. 54)

Issues that commonly fan the flames of cross-cultural conflict are age, gender, social and political history, cultural history, where the person was born, marital status, the social norms of the milieu in which they grew up - preconceptions, biases, physical, psychological or emotional problems, also sexual mores and religious sensibilities. (legacy.communitydoor.com.au, 14/02/14)

One’s own inculcated preconceptions related to culture, may easily contribute to misunderstandings when working with clients. (For example, having grown up in Australia, a nation considered multicultural, this writer has access to some knowledge about other cultures represented in the region – and some likely erroneous preconceptions, not only regarding cultures encountered, but more so regarding, for instance, Melbourne’s experience of Greek culture, alien to him.

Even within mos...

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...nt to be aware of, and to have addressed these potential obstacles.

By employing appropriate techniques, this writer can more effectively assist people of other cultures. He needs to be aware of the related issues, his own biases and attitudes - not allowing them to influence his counselling - and being aware that if necessary, there are people that can be of assistance or, in extremis, take over responsibility where there is perceived danger to any person. (skillsyouneed.com, 13/02/14).

Works Cited

skillsyouneed.com

legacy.communitydoor.com

aipc.com

Weiten, W., Lloyd, M., Dunn, D. Hammer, E. (2009). Psychology applied to modern life: Adjustment in the 21st century. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth

Open Colleges (2011). Student workbook: Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers. Strawberry hills NSW: Open Colleges Pty Ltd,