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The Role of Body Language in Intercultural Communication

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The role of body language in intercultural communication
Despite the fact that the majority of gestures can be universally deciphered, there are considerable differences in body languages in different cultures. Thus the process of intercultural communication requires great tact and consideration to the behavioral patterns typical of other countries.
Here are some brief pointers concerning body language variations and gestures in cultures which differ from Western (US/UK notably) behaviour.
People from parts of India may to shake their head from side to side as a sign of agreement and active listening. In the west we tend to nod our head to agree and affirm and to show we are listening; in India it is not unusual for people to move their heads from side to side in giving these reactions. It is also seen as respectful practice.
This point concerns eye contact. Eye contact is generally regarded as a positive aspect of body language in Western cultures, which in this context typically refers to white European people and descendents. A specific difference regarding eye contact can be found in some black Caribbean cultures however, whereby young people tend to be instructed not look at someone eye to eye when being told off or disciplined.
Filipino people (and in fact many other people of all races) can find it offensive/uncomfortable when beckoned by a repeatedly curled index finger - the gesture evokes feelings of having done something wrong and being chastised for it.
In Arab countries the thumbs-up gesture is rude. Showing the soles of the feet is insulting/rude in many Asian and Arab cultures, especially pointing the foot or feet at anyone. Feet are considered 'inferior' parts of the body compared with the dignity of the face. In Arab culture the left hand and right hands have religious connotations which generally dictate that the left hand is not used for

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