What’s the Gesture?
Respect and Empathy
Cultural Differences
Conflict Resolution
100
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What does a thumbs-up mean in most Western cultures?
Answer: It means “good job” or approval.
100
What is empathy, and why is it important in intercultural communication?
Empathy is understanding and sharing another’s feelings. It helps avoid misunderstandings and builds trust.
100
What is a common greeting custom in Kazakhstan?
Answer: A handshake
100
What is the first step in resolving a conflict with someone from a different culture?
Answer: Listen to their perspective without interrupting.
200
In Kazakhstan, what does placing your hand over your heart after a handshake signify?
Answer: It shows respect and gratitude.
200
How can you show empathy when a group mate struggles with language barriers?
Answer: Be patient, listen carefully, and offer help without judgment.
200
In which culture is direct eye contact sometimes seen as disrespectful?
Many Asian cultures, such as China or Japan.
200
What is a common cause of intercultural conflicts?
Answer: Misunderstandings due to cultural norms or communication styles.
300
True or False: Nodding always means “yes” in every culture
Answer: False (e.g., in Bulgaria, nodding can mean “no”).
300
A groupmate celebrates a holiday you are unfamiliar with. How can you show respect?
Answer: Ask them about the holiday and wish them well for the occasion.
300
Which Indian festival involves the lighting of lamps and celebrating the victory of good over evil?
Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
300
What is stereotype?
A stereotype is a generalized belief about a particular category of people.
400
What is the common way to greet someone in Japan?
Answer: Bowing.
400
What is a small but meaningful way to show empathy to a classmate who seems stressed?
Offer words of encouragement or ask if they need help with their work.
400
True or False: In some cultures, it's considered disrespectful to make physical contact with strangers.
Answer: True (e.g., in Japan or the Middle East, physical contact with strangers is often avoided).
400
What approach can help de-escalate a conflict when emotions are high?
Answer: Practice empathy, stay calm, and use neutral language.
500
What does a fist bump mean in casual settings?
Answer: It’s a friendly greeting or sign of agreement.
500
If you don’t understand someone’s accent, what should you do to show respect?
Answer: Politely ask them to repeat and avoid making them feel embarrassed.
500
True or False: In South Korea, it's considered bad luck to write someone's name in red ink.
Answer: True (this is because red ink is traditionally used to write the names of the deceased).
500
True or False: It’s a good idea to yell during a conflict to get your point across.
Answer: False (yelling can make the conflict worse and stop effective communication).