Cross-Cultural Communication Quiz: Avowal and Ascription

12 Questions

What does cultural communication refer to?

The practice and study of how different cultures communicate within their own community

Which field of study is cultural communication closely associated with?

Psychology and anthropology

What is a major factor that can contribute to cultural miscommunication?

Different styles of speech and messages

Which type of culture values independence and focuses on individual wants, needs, and goals?

Individualistic culture

What is a characteristic of collectivist cultures?

They think more as a group rather than as individuals

What does intercultural communication require?

An understanding that different cultures have different customs, standards, and thought patterns

What is the primary barrier to cross-cultural communication mentioned in the text?

Lack of a universal language and culture

Which of the following is NOT listed as a key area of knowledge for improving intercultural communication?

Fluency in multiple languages

What is the definition of cultural identity?

Self-identification and a sense of belonging to a group

What is the difference between avowal and ascription in the context of cultural identity?

Avowal is how an individual expresses their group identity, while ascription is how others perceive that identity.

Which of the following is NOT listed as a component of cultural identity in the text?

Societal power structures

What factors can cause an individual's cultural identity to change over time?

All of the above

Study Notes

Basics of Cultural Communication

Cultural communication refers to the practice and study of how different cultures communicate with each other, also known as intercultural communication and cross-cultural communication.
It involves understanding cultural backgrounds and their effects on communication.
Language is a representative of one’s cultural background, and cultural miscommunication often stems from different and conflicting styles of speech and messages.

Intercultural Communication

Intercultural communication requires understanding that different cultures have different customs, social mores, and thought patterns.
It involves a willingness to accept differences and adapt to them.
Primary barriers to cross-cultural communication include lack of a universal language and culture.
Key areas of knowledge for intercultural communication include:
- Knowledge of different cultures
- Recognition of how cultural aspects affect behavioral norms
- Understanding of how cultures affect communication and language
- Awareness of one’s own and others’ values
- Sensitivity towards cultural stereotypes

Culture and Identity

Culture is defined as the values, beliefs, thinking patterns, and behavior that are learned and shared by a group of people.
Cultural identity is self-identification, a sense of belonging to a group that reaffirms itself, and is dynamic and constantly evolving.
Cultural identity is negotiated, co-created, and reinforced in communication with others.
Properties of cultural identity include:
- Avowal and ascription (how one expresses and is perceived by others)
- Modes of expression (use of core symbols to show belonging)
Components of cultural identity include:
- Individual (how an individual interprets their cultural identity)
- Relational (how individuals interact with others)
- Communal (use of communication in creating a shared identity)
- Enduring and changing aspects of identity (changes due to various factors)
- Affective and cognitive aspects of identity (emotions attached to cultural identity in particular situations)
- Content and relationship levels (interaction between individuals)
- Salience or prominence (degree to which an identity is demonstrated in a situation)

Cultural Communication Basics Quiz