Ch3 Intercultural Communication

Hello 💜 nice to virtually meet you through my writing

W E L C O M E

My name is Brenda Rojas I am studying psychology at Miami Dade Hialeah campus. Fortunate to be taking SPC1017-4822 with S. Sinkoff

Quick Disclaimer: I will touch base on meaningful topics that may be too much for close mindedness to handle...p.s. I sprinkle humor here and there ;) 

Groundwork

Imagine two forces coming from different backgrounds - it may be challenging to find a middle ground but intercultural communications help facilitate exploring any common similarities.

Culture: The process of shared beliefs, values, attitudes and norms that guide identifiable groups consider appropriate.💡Culture has an immense impact on an individuals perception and communication.
Values: considered to be the accepted right and wrong standards
    Categorized into (2) guiding factors:
            Real Values: In reality - what guides us 
            Ideal Values: An Ideal world
Dominant culture: Learn Systems overruled by majority. If a single individual taps to open mindedness, we can eliminate disruptive dominant culture.

(8) Important Identifying factors

Race

The term race, is continuously misused. "Traditionally" race was used to group humans based on appearance: skin color - body shape - eye color - hair texture on a biological level. Modern westernization defined race as a social construct society must follow. Certain rules and limitations were given especially to African Americans. The term race was used when abusing African American slaves (1619) also used when beginning the Civil Rights movement at the end of the U.S. Civil War (1950). 

<<watch video below >>

                                                Exploring the history of Civil Rights Movement

The injustice becomes easier when people become unwilling to change perception and bring equality into the world. In 2021, a majority of police officers were assuming forbidden charges onto every dark skin individual they would come across. Historical movement, Black Lives Matter was brought to the forefront. A historical political and social movement that has raised immense awareness on police brutality and racially motivated violence against African Americas. The goal is to educate the world on the discrimination and racism African Americans experience. The fight is still not over & hopefully the future has equality in store.  Month of February: Black History Month

Ethnicity

Individuals who identify with a learned cultural heritage. For instance, I was born in Mexico raised by my Cuban mom here in the state of Florida. Yet, my personal cultural heritage is Hispanic-American. I remember receiving judgement for wanting a better education simply because I’m a Hispanic immigrant. I realized my fears did not compare to the diverse culture, unique traditions, and delicious cuisines that I have running through my veins. I’m glad I learned to appreciate and embrace my roots. You should do the same. 

Animated video on Ethnic Groups

Sex and Gender

Two distinctive determinants that people seem to misuse, Sex (biological traits) and Gender (physical traits). A combined example would be a Male (sex) individual who identifies as female (gender). America welcomes freedom of expression. Unfortunately, typical culture shows ignorance when defining “acceptable” male and female role that may not fit correctly. Gender on one hand become tricky to understand as it stems from learned roles and communication patterns that deem fit for dominant American society. Shall I use myself as an example? My biological sex is female and my society wishes for my female gender to behave dependent and timidly. But I will always continue being independent because that’s the most authentic version of myself. I hope the reader continue discovering who they are. 

Sexual Orientation

Want to know a provoking fact? "The dominant American culture has historically valued and privileged heterosexuality." (p. 35). There is always a severe misunderstanding to those individuals that steer away from the dominant America culture. Chin up though, times are changing for the better. Click to get informed on LGBTQ+ related topics. There are 22 states + D.C. and counting who prohibit any discrimination based on sexual orientation. The community continues to advocate and are more passionate than ever before. 

LGBTQ sexualities & meanings

Religion

Multiple religions practicing Faith

There are over 4,000 recognized religions...For the sake of time we must scope its basic principles. Religion is an identified belief system with sets of rituals and ethical standards to follow. Individuals who share common perception, come in alliance to what is divine for all. 

That being said, belief isn't filled with religious freedom for all.  

This issue arises when opposing religions interact with lack of understanding. For example, religious followers of Islam, "submission to the will of god" are called Muslims they believe in an all-knowing god Allah. A militant group, ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) promotes deadly killings. Since the group is well-known in America, Muslims are constantly being prejudiced. In order to have religious acceptance, people need to make a clear distinction between terrorist groups and Islam beliefs of peace, mercy and forgiveness. 

Socioeconomic Status (SES)

Hierarchy of class status (low, middle or high) of the individual or group. Unfortunately, this is a society based on wealth, education, and occupation. The mentality to achieve the American dream is based off the well dignified authorities. Making it a hard reach for incoming immigrants who start from ground zero. The American dream mentality can either eat or motivate your spirits. What are your thoughts at sight of the homeless? 

How Socioeconomic Status impacts Cognitive Development

Age/Generation

Treating someone with kindness regardless of their personal expectations

A generational gap between two people demonstrates difficult. Particularly understanding how views are met. The thought process of an elder may be controversial to the young gen-z. The shared conflicts with morality should be approached from an educational standpoint. There should always be a playing field of open mindedness. A level of respect must constantly be exchanged when generational gaps come in contact. 

Disability 

Defined as a physical or mental impairment that impacts mobility, communication, seeing, hearing, and learning in everyday lives. The chapter focuses more on individuals who come together by common values, beliefs and attitudes through the disability co-culture group. This group was identified to bring awareness regarding experiences with disability. Films are now becoming more inclusive. For example Disney created a film Loop focusing on a non-verbal ASD girl names Madison Brandy. The film director made it her goal to make Madison Brandy feel comfortable throughout the journey. The character Renee, highlights challenges on non-verbal individuals go through to promote overall patience. "Such films help brea through misinformed stereotypes and prejudiced thinking about the value and human potential of people who live with a disability." (p.36)

<<watch video below >>

2021 Toyota Big Game Commercial: Jessica Long's Story 

From double amputee to 13-time Paralympic champion. A truly, inspiring story of an unsinkable spirit. Jessica Long shows utmost determination and strength. "It might not be easy, but it will be amazing."

A disability co-culture group created a safe space to share amputee stories similar to Jessica's. Showing unity and dignity in the vulnerability that is being transmitted.

                I was able to learn from (ACCESS Director at Hialeah MDC) Corrinne M. Lockamy  

People First Language : Essential when creating an environment based upon respect and empathy. 

👆This avoids using misconstructed labels or adjectives 

<<Click on link below to gain further insight >>

7 Principles of Universal Design

All the topics I have mentioned will benefit you as a listener, speaker and individual in society 😌

Equality + Respect + Patience + Empathy  = Harmonious coexistence

Remember we share at-least one thing in common... Being Humans :)