Typically, some of the basic assumptions we make when communicating with people from our own culture must be questioned and modified when communicating with people of another culture. First on the list of items for review is verbal communication. Parts of verbal communication, such as, tonality, tense, gender generalities and structure vary greatly from culture to culture. A majority of these differences are based on core values and perceptions in different cultures; therefore, such differences must be acknowledged if effective communication and relationships are

Another contrast of cultural difference is demonstrated by a model of leadership consisting of one leader and many followers versus a culture based on extensive discussion and mutual decision making as a core value. It is difficult to comprehend working in a group where the participants are seldom asked for their input, but instead being led in the direction chosen by the leader. Coming to terms with discord between core values is a complex struggle. Deeply embedded cultural norms are difficult to consciously recognize; once they are recognized, opposing norms are difficult to fully accept. An upbringing that stresses communication and equality is a core value that makes it extremely arduous to submit to someone based on his/her position as a leader, rather than on earned respect.

Mutual respect sounds like an admirable approach to different cultures, but it is difficult in practice. Often there are situations where

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Approximate Word count = 622
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)