THUONG MAI UNIVERSITY

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DISSCUSION
ENGLISH FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES 2

TOPIC: Culture:
Cultural differences, cultural awareness, and how to avoid culture shock

Instructor: Dang Thi Khanh Ha

Implementation group: Group 5
Class code section: 232_ENTI1012_37

Hanoi – 2024
 MEETING MINUTES (1) – GROUP 5
Time: from 20h30 to 21h30, 02/01/2024
Place: Online, Google Meeting
Members:
PRESENTATION OUTLINE
CHOOSE A DISCUSSION TOPIC
Culture: Cultural differences, cultural awareness, and how to avoid culture shock
BODY/DEVELOPMENT
1. Cultural difference
2. The importance of cultural awareness
3. How to overcome cultural shock?
CONCLUSION
Head of the team:
 MEETING MINUTES (2) – GROUP 5
Time: from 20h30 to 22h00, 10/01/2024
Place: Online, Google Meeting
Members:
Contents for discussing:
- Assign work and finalize outline
- Assign submission deadlines

Content Name Student code

Introduction & Conclusion Nguyễn Phương Linh 21D160229

Nguyễn Lê Ngọc Mai 21D160014

Lê Phương Linh 21D160280

Nguyễn Thị Phương Loan 21D160283

Nguyễn Thị Hồng Lê 21D160124

 TABLE OF CONTENT
INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................3
MAIN CONTENT..........................................................................................................4
1. Cultural difference................................................................................................4
1.1. Definition of cultural difference......................................................................4
1.2. Example of cultural difference........................................................................4
2. The importance of cultural awareness.................................................................5
2.1. Definition of cultural awareness......................................................................5
2.2. The importance of cultural awareness.............................................................5
3. How to overcome cultural shock?........................................................................8
3.1. What is cultural shock?....................................................................................8
3.2. Symptoms of cultural shock.............................................................................9
3.3. How to overcome cultural shock?....................................................................9
CONCLUSION.............................................................................................................13
 INTRODUCTION

A culture is defined not just by its attributes but also by what it is not. Humans
belong to thousands of major cultures and myriad sub-cultures. In fact, we all belong to
different cultures at the same time. Cultural differences are the various beliefs,
behaviors, languages, practices, and expressions considered unique to members of a
specific ethnicity, race, or national origin. Cultural differences can be a source of
enrichment and learning, but they can also lead to misunderstandings and culture shock.
To avoid unnecessary cultural conflicts, today our group would like to present an essay
on the topic Culture: Cultural differences, cultural awareness, and how to avoid culture
shock.
 MAIN CONTENT

1. Cultural difference
1.1. Definition of cultural difference
The history of cultures is as old as human existence and generally involves the
values of a community, society, or a group of people living or working together. People’s
way of interpreting issues including verbal and non-verbal communication signals or
body language, events, dressing modes, and general lifestyles lead to creation of a
particular cultural pattern of a specific community or social set up.
These similar attributes of a particular lifestyle to a specific community or group
of people contribute to the cultural identity of that community. However, cultural
identities differ from one community to another and from country to the other, these
differences formed the concept of Culture difference.

1.2. Example of cultural difference

We can see quite clearly about the culture difference in Non-verbal
communication between countries:
In the US, waving a hand is a way to greet or say hello and goodbye. Nodding
your head up and down is a way to say yes. Shaking your head from side to side is a way
to no. Putting your hand facing out is a way to say stop. Firm hand-shake for greetings.
In Japan, different types of bows with different hand movements have different
meanings. For example, a slight bow with the hand in the front means “Thank you”; a
slight bow and the shake of the hand mean “Excuse me” or “Passing”; there are 3
different types of bow angle for greeting too.
Another example of culture difference is the way of gift giving in different
countries:
In China, gifts are often presented with two hands and refused politely at first
before being accepted. While in Latin America, gifts are not always expected in
important events but are always appreciated. It's better to be slightly late than arrive on
time with a gift. And in the US, Gifts are usually opened upon receiving them.
We can also see the culture difference in communication styles. For instance, in
Germany, communication tends to be direct and to the point. But in Japan,
communication can be more indirect, with emphasis on nonverbal cues and avoiding
confrontation. And in Latin America, communication can be more expressive and
animated, with a focus on building relationships.
2. The importance of cultural awareness
2.1. Definition of cultural awareness
The word 'culture' refers to the respective community's ethics, beliefs, and
lifestyle. So, cultural awareness means to be aware of different cultures. Cultural
awareness can be understood and recognised by different values, beliefs, and customs of
other groups and societies.
Cultural awareness involves raising people’s understanding of the influence our
culture has on how we do things, including how we communicate, what foods we eat, or
even how we go about our work. Being culturally aware means understanding why
cultural diversity is important and recognising that not every person will do things in the
same manner as we do. Being mindful of this diversity allows us to be more respectful
of the way others operate based on their cultural backgrounds. While you may not be
intimately familiar with other cultures, if you at least understand your own culture and
how it affects you, you can take the first step in developing a sense of cultural awareness
when it comes to interacting with people who may have a different background than
yourself.

2.2. The importance of cultural awareness

Being culturally aware matters for many reasons that affect almost every aspect
of both our personal lives, and the communities we are a part of; including navigating
everyday interactions, succeeding in our careers, and communicating empathetically and
effectively with other people. Even though it might seem like a daunting task, we must
continue to develop our cultural awareness. The following points cover why cultural
awareness matters:
2.2.1. Effective communication
A significant advantage of cultural awareness is it allows us to
communicate effectively with people of different cultures. Conversely, lack of cultural
awareness can result in misinterpretations of people from other cultures. Furthermore,
such a deficiency often leads to problems in communicating and understanding the
intentions of others.
In essence, cultural awareness functions as a conduit between individuals
from different backgrounds, allowing them to communicate effectively, the cultivation
of trust, and the respectful traversal of divergent perspectives. Consequently, this
foundation underpins the development of robust relationships, collaborative endeavors,
and the fostering of a more inclusive and harmonious society.
 2.2.2. Respect of cultural
While effective intercultural communication is just the foundation, cultural
awareness promotes respect for different cultures. This respect cultivates a societal
environment where diverse cultural expressions are not only accepted, but actively
supported and embraced. Consequently, cultural awareness serves as a catalyst for
dismantling cultural barriers, facilitating respectful integration within diverse
communities. In short, cultural awareness is not merely about understanding, but about
respecting the unique and valuable aspects of different cultures.

2.2.3. Promote leadership

Leadership is a continuous learning journey, and cultural awareness plays
a significant role in this ongoing development. As leaders familiarize themselves with
diverse cultures, they broaden their perspectives, challenge their biases, and expand their
knowledge. This heightened cultural intelligence enables leaders to adapt their
leadership approaches, embracing techniques that resonate with their team members and
accommodating their unique needs.
Cultural awareness benefits people in leadership roles and management
roles. It helps them in making appropriate decisions and motivating employees. In such
a way, leaders and managers can take decisions with a global mindset. The employees
feel acknowledged and valued in the organization.
To lead people effectively, it is essential to delve into and comprehend
their cultural framework. By gaining a deep understanding of their values, beliefs, and
behaviors, leaders can establish meaningful connections and create an environment
where everyone feels valued and understood. This cultural intelligence empowers
leaders to identify what resonates with their team members and what doesn’t, allowing
them to tailor their leadership approach accordingly.
Leadership is at its best when there is a genuine connection between
leaders and their team members. However, without a solid understanding of their
culture, this connection becomes tenuous, hindering effective communication and
collaboration. By taking the time to bridge the cultural gap, leaders demonstrate their
commitment to building meaningful relationships, both personally and professionally.
This effort fosters trust, respect, and empathy, which are vital ingredients for successful
leadership.

2.2.4. Better workplace

 As cultural awareness promotes leadership roles, the leaders promote a
diverse work culture. Promoting diversity means allowing employees with different
cultures to work together as a team equally. It results in turning the organization into a
better workplace. Hence, the employees feel more motivated. So, the work is done more
effectively.
Embracing cultural awareness can help you recognise how cultural
differences can influence one’s perceptions, helping us become more accommodating of
different opinions. In addition, being empathetic and understanding can help create an
inclusive environment that encourages creativity and innovation, while improving
efficiency and profitability.
In such a richly diverse environment, cultural awareness becomes pivotal.
It fosters a respectful and inclusive work culture where differences are acknowledged,
valued, and leveraged for innovation and growth. It’s not just about avoiding
misunderstandings or conflicts; it’s about celebrating diversity and creating an
environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

2.2.5. Successful globalization

As we begin to explore the world, we begin to relate to people with
cultural differences. As a result, the cultural connection becomes stronger and reduces
the risk of any cultural conflicts. When we are culturally aware, we can consider what
may be inappropriate to people with diverse backgrounds. Indirectly, this helps us
globalize more easily and effectively and reduces the barriers.
Cultural awareness helps us break down cultural barriers, build cultural
bridges, and learn how to appreciate those different from us. We can relate better to
people with cultural differences as we begin to understand ourselves better. This results
in more cultural connection and less cultural conflict.
When encountering new languages and cultures, we begin to make
comparisons and realize that our own behaviors, values, and beliefs are not the general
norm found elsewhere in the world.
By being culturally aware, we can recognize and have an appreciation for
other's values, customs, and beliefs and meet them without judgment or prejudice. When
we are culturally aware, we can know what is considered inappropriate or offensive to
others. Incorrect body language often leads to misunderstandings.
In today's modern age, cultural awareness is becoming increasingly
important. By being culturally aware, we highlight diversity in different beautiful and
meaningful ways. Cultural awareness is about recognizing and understanding that we all
have different values shaped by our diverse cultural backgrounds. We understand better
and have a broader view of different cultures. As a result, we can build deeper
connections with people around the world.

3. How to overcome cultural shock?

3.1. What is cultural shock?
3.1.1. Definition of cultural shock
Culture shock refers to the feeling of disorientation and discomfort a
person feels when moving from a familiar to an unfamiliar place. This can mean
immigrating to a new country, shifting to a different place in one’s own country, or
transitioning to a different type of life.
Different cultures have different languages, food habits, social norms,
etc. These differences between the home culture and the new culture are what cause
culture shock. It can lead to feelings of isolation, a sense of frustration, sleep
disturbances, etc.

3.1.2. Example of cultural shock

a) Being offended by perceived rudeness: Some countries are more
upfront than others, which can come across as rudeness. For example, Russians are
known for being blunt whereas British people are not. This may cause confusion and
frustration when communicating across cultures.

b) Not understanding workplace norms: If you got a job overseas, you

may find that the norms around what’s acceptable in the workplace can be confronting.
For example, if you got a job in Japan, you may find yourself staying back at work a lot
later in the evening than you’d have liked.

c) Dificulty with language: One of the top causes of culture shock is

language problems. If you need to learn a new language, communicating becomes very
hard and your self-confidence may suffer.

d) Struggling with food and eating: Traveling overseas means you are
unlikely to find the exact ingredients you wanted in the shops anymore. Even things that
are labeled the same may taste different. Before you know it, you may find that you
really miss the food back home.
 e) Inability to navigate traffic: You may move to another country and
expect it’ll be easy to catch the bus, drive around town, or rent a motorbike. But anyone
who’s been to Asia will realize the roads are crazy there! You might feel overwhelmed
by the prospect of having to drive or navigate the streets in your new home.

3.2. Symptoms of cultural shock

3.2.1. Not assimilated
This can involve feeling out of place, struggling to adapt to new customs,
and finding it challenging to integrate into the local community. You may feel like you
don't fit in and that you'll never be able to understand the new culture. This can lead to
feelings of isolation and loneliness. Imagine walking into a party where everyone is
speaking a secret language. That's what it can feel like initially. You might feel like an
outsider, isolated, and long for the familiar.

3.2.2. Loss of confidence

Cultural differences can shake one's confidence, especially when faced
with unfamiliar social norms, communication styles, or work environments. The
unfamiliar environment can make you question your abilities. You might feel like your
skills don't translate well, leading to a loss of confidence. Remember that time you aced
that presentation back home? Now, even ordering food feels like a challenge.

3.2.3. Tiredness
Adapting to a new culture requires mental and emotional energy, which
can lead to fatigue and exhaustion as individuals navigate unfamiliar surroundings and
social dynamics. Culture shock can be mentally and emotionally draining. You may find
yourself feeling tired all the time, even if you're getting enough sleep. Culture shock is
mentally and emotionally draining. The stress of navigating a new culture can also
manifest in physical exhaustion.

3.2.4. Self – doubt

Cultural differences may challenge one's beliefs, values, and ways of
thinking, leading to self-doubt and questioning of one's identity and decisions. You may
start to question your decision to move to a new culture and wonder if you made a
mistake. These doubts can be paralyzing and make it hard to adjust.
 3.3. How to overcome cultural shock?
You can cope with culture shock through working through these changes,
focusing on the positives, and adapting to the culture.
3.3.1. Copong with the changes
a) Talk to others about your experience.
Don’t allow yourself to become a recluse during this experience. Reach out
to your friends either locally or at home to talk to them about how you are feeling.
Perhaps you are on a study abroad trip and have other classmates who have similar
feelings; connect with them as well as with those who are adjusting a bit more easily.
For example, you might say something like “I know that you seem to be having a great
time here in” or “I know that you seem to be having a great time here in Italy but I’m
really struggling with how different it is from home. How did you manage to acclimate
so well?”.

b) Find a distraction.
Though it can be tempting to allow this culture shock to take over your
mind, allow something else to replace it. Don’t exhaust yourself by ruminating on your
stress constantly. Watch movies or listen to music that you enjoy. Practice your hobbies
like reading, dancing or shopping.

c) Keep in touch with everyone from home.

Being homesick could also be intensifying your feelings of culture shock.
Though you should not be reaching out 24/7, keep connected with your friends and
family back home. You can plan to call your family and friends at a minimum of every
few days. If phone access is restricted where you are, try email or send handwritten
letters.

d) Do things that are familiar to you.

When you are experiencing culture shock, nearly every experience that you
are having may feel completely new to you. Find some ways to bring some experiences
and normalcy from home to your current environment. For instance, perhaps you enjoy a
certain meal that you can’t find in any restaurants in your current location. Or find the
ingredients and make your own. Though you should try to have many new experiences,
try to keep some familiarity in your daily schedule.

3.3.2. Adapting to your environment

 a) Learn as much as you can about the environment.
Though this experience may be a bit overwhelming for you, you can
combat this through doing a bit of information-digging. Do some research on the area,
country, or town that you are in. Having a greater context and understanding will help
you to adjust better and have more knowledge of the culture. For instance, perhaps you
were accepted into a university that is located in a predominantly Native American
community and you were not aware of that beforehand. Research the local tribe as well
as the community’s history. You will likely develop a greater appreciation because of it.

b) Respect the culture.

Find out as much as you can about the culture of the area so that you don’t
commit any social faux pas. For instance, if you are in Israel, you may want to keep your
shoulders and thighs covered at all times. You do not want to offend others out of your
own ignorance of the customs.

c) Learn language.
Take some time to truly immerse yourself in the language of your location.
Try to learn at least a few basic terms and phrases that will help you get by during your
stay. If you will be in the area for an excess of six months, however, you might want to
consider learning more. Try to learn at least one or two new phrases per day, try to have
conversations with local speakers or watch television shows or movies in the language
to learn it more readily.

d) Get involved.
Find ways to get more involved in the community that you are in. Perhaps
you come from a predominantly Black community and now find yourself in a town
where over 90% of the population is white. Try to find a community of people with
interests similar to you, while also finding those who you can identify with racially. For
instance, perhaps there is a local book club who is scheduled to read a book that you are
interested in. Join this club and try it out for a while.

3.3.3. Finding the positive

a) Make a list of all the things you love.
Though culture shock can be stressful, work to find the beauty in your
surroundings daily. Make a list of all of the good things about your environment as well
as any fun experiences that you have had. You have likely had a lot more fun than you
might realize, but documenting that on paper can make it feel more real to you. For
instance, perhaps the city you are in is gorgeous. You might also have met a really nice
friend while you were there.

b) Make local friends.

Another way to find and create more positivity with your experience is to
make some local friends. Go out at night and meet new people. Go to a festival or event
and make some connections there. Local friends can be instrumental in helping you
navigate the area, find the coolest spots, and have the best time where you are.
 CONCLUSION

Our assertion is that people everywhere have much in common, such as a need for
affiliation and love, participation, and contribution. When the exterior is peeled off, there
are not so many differences after all. The main thing to remember is that everyone, no
matter what their cultural background, has their own unique opinions, habits and ways
of life. The sooner you accept that everyone is different, the easier it becomes to
understand and embrace cultural differences. Hopefully group 5's presentation will help
you have a more positive view of cultural differences, and not let yourself experience
culture shock anywhere.