Closing the Gap

David J. Galban

Kennesaw State University

Study Abroad a Cross Cultural Exchange

In contemporary United States society, learning to

interact effectively in a diverse environment is a

useful skill. Regardless of the degree that a student

is pursuing, learning the multicultural aspect of

American Society facilitates the transition of an

individual into the “real world”.

Closing the Gap

Learning to interact effectively in a diverse

environment requires to know and be aware of

some important concepts:Individualism Vs CollectivismEthnocentrismEmpathyReciprocityCultural bias (stereotypes)

From individualism to collectivism

Cultural variables (characteristics, values) in individualistic societies:

Autonomous Independence Self reliance Personal achievement Individuals are highly motivated by their own

preferences and goals

From individualism to Collectivism

Cultural variables (characteristics, values) in collectivistic societies:

Interdependent Conformity Achievement of the group (priority to the goals of

the group) Perception of time Perception of reality

Closing the Gap

Ethnocentrism: “tendency to reject and malign other

ethnic groups and their members while glorifying one’s

Own group”. (APA, 2009).

Empathy: The ability to identify with others, to integrate

others’ perspectives with our own without giving up our

Own perspectives.

Closing the GapReciprocity

“The quality of an act, process, or relationship in which

one person receives benefits from another , and in return,

Provides the giver with an equivalent benefit” (APA, 2009).

“Reciprocity is a social rule and comes with a sense of obligation” (R. Cialdini, 2007)

Reciprocity resulting from a sense of empathy rather than

from a sense of obligation is more beneficial. What do the communities (host families) get in return?

What can be done to narrow the gap?

Reduce the effects of the cultural shock

Increase empathy by reducing cultural bias

Minimize ethnocentrism

Reevaluating critical thinking Increase reciprocity among students, study abroad

programs, and host communities

References

American Psychological Association (2009). APA concise dictionary of psychology

(1st ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychology Association.

Cialdini, B. R. (2007). Influence the psychology of persuasion. New York, NY: HarperCollins.

Shiraev, E. B., Levy D. A. (2010). Cross-Cultural Psychology “critical thinking and contemporary applications. Boston, MA: Pearson.

Triandis, H. C. (2000) Culture and conflict. International Journal of Psychology.

35. 145-152

Myers, D. G. (2007). Exploring social psychology (4th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.

Thank you.

Any questions?