2). Although nonverbal messages are more universal than verbal messages, nonverbals do not always carry the same meanings in other cultures. Can you give examples of some of the nonverbal displays that take on different meanings in other countries? If you have moved around within this country, have you ever encountered regional differences in nonverbal meaning?
The only example I can really think of nonverbal communication in other countries would be my trip to the Philippines back in 2004. I had never been out of the country and when I first arrived I was taken back by all the differences they have over there. Coming out of the plane, everyone had frowned faces and I didn't understand why. In my head, I was happy to be here because I was "home" and I am able to be with family members. People were walking around so upset that it scared me a bit because of their facial expressions. People would be throwing luggages everywhere and I still couldn't grasp the concept of their angriness. However, when my aunt picked me up, she was able to explain to me that people are upset with the weather. It is very hot in the Philippines and it is common for people to be constantly upset due to the unpleasant weather.
I haven't moved around the country, but I have been on vacations around the United States that have allowed me to open my eyes and have an understanding of the world around us. I went to New York a couple of years ago for spring break and everyone was constantly running and in a hurry. Of course I understand why they were all hectic--we live busy lives!! However, people would be at bakeries or deli shops and they basically would order with the look on their face. For example, I was at a deli and this lady was ordering a sandwich. The sandwich maker would ask if she wanted certain condiments on her sandwich and her facial expressions would say it all. The deli was completely quiet and needless to say, when I went in, I was so loud that people just frowned at me...
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Week #7--Question #2
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Hi goober! When you were in the Philippines, were there perhaps any hand gestures, or other nonverbal messages that were different than they are in America?
ReplyDeleteHi Goober!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your post this week. Your story about the nonverbal gestures people display in the Philippines was not only interesting but also hilarious. I don't blame people being angry at the weather. I can only imagine how hot it might be in the Philippines. Personally, I would much rather be in cold weather then really hot humid weather. I also found it interesting how you described your time in New York. I have also been to New York and found it very different then California. Not only do Californians have a different accent then New Yorkers, but we also live our lives a bit different. It might be the weather or geography, but I've noticed that New Yorkers have much busier lives then Californians. Us Californians are just a little more laid back. I enjoyed reading your post this week, great job!
Hi Goober!
ReplyDeleteI've been to the Philippines too and I wouldn't say I noticed that the people had angry expressions on their faces, or maybe I was one of them. I think that there are other factors that caused them to make angered faces besides the weather. Maybe the people there are a bit stand-off-ish?
As for New Yorkers, they just lead different lives. I've been there and I understand how it would seem like they are always in a hurry. The city has so many people who commute around there, that people need to speed up to get anywhere they need to be on time.
Interesting blog this week!