Communication

1. The subtle ways in which people communicate can differ between cultures. For example, Americans tend to space themselves at a particular distance from each other when talking. Other cultures tend to stand or sit much closer together. Have you encountered these "space" issues? Can you give examples?
   
   
2. Some cultures tend to touch each other more than others. In many parts of Asia, people who are not friends rarely touch each other when communicating. In many Latin American countries, frequent touching, patting, or hugging is the norm. What examples of this have your encountered since your arrival here?
   
   
3. The way people greet each other differs between countries. How do you greet others in your country? Handshake? Bow? Hands together? How might you greet someone of higher/lower status in your country?
   
   
4. Eye contact can differ dramatically between countries. What is the norm in your country? How is eye contact different between workers/superiors, for example? Or between the sexes?