Synopses & Reviews
Suitable for the first course in intercultural communication, this text follows a model that examines communication within cultural, micro-cultural, environmental, socio-relational, and perceptual contexts. Each context is a combination of factors that include setting, situation, and circumstances. Neuliep depicts his theory as a series of circles representing the idea that communication is defined by the interdependence of cultural contexts.
Each chapter of the book focuses on a different context, beginning with the outermost cultural circle of the model and moving inward towards the most specific traits of communication, verbal and non-verbal messages. The text highlights influences such as values, ethnicity, physical geography, and attitudes and then examines certain means of interaction, including body language, eye contact, and the exchange of words. The text is designed throughout to show students the stages of relationships, cross-cultural management, intercultural conflict, and culture shock.
Table of Contents
The necessity of intercultural communication -- The cultural context -- The microcultural context -- The environmental context -- The perceptual context -- The socio-relational context -- The verbal code : human language -- Nonverbal language -- Developing intercultural relationships -- Intercultural communication in organizations -- Intercultural competence, acculturation, and culture shock.