CONFLICTS
What is intercultural conflict?
A misunderstanding or disagreement caused by differences in cultural values, communication styles, or expectations.
What is Hofstede’s dimension of Power Distance?
How much a culture accepts hierarchy and unequal power.
What are Universalism vs. Particularism?
Universalism applies rules equally; particularism adapts rules based on relationships.
What is mediation?
A neutral third party helping resolve conflict.
What is culture?
Shared values, beliefs, and behaviors of a group.
What is a common cause of intercultural conflict?
Different communication styles (direct vs. indirect).
What does Individualism vs. Collectivism describe?
Whether people prioritize personal goals or group goals.
What is Neutral vs. Emotional communication?
Neutral cultures hide feelings; emotional cultures express them openly.
What is the compromise strategy?
Both sides give up something to reach middle ground.
What is cultural shock?
Stress caused by exposure to a new culture.
What is ethnocentrism?
Believing your culture is superior to others, often causing conflict.
How does Masculinity vs. Femininity relate to conflict?
Masculine cultures prefer competition; feminine cultures prefer compromise.
Explain Specific vs. Diffuse cultures.
Specific separates work/life; diffuse blends personal and professional.
Describe the avoidance style.
Delaying or refusing to deal with conflict.
What is stereotyping?
Assuming all members of a group behave the same way.
What is a high-context vs. low-context conflict dynamic?
High-context relies on implicit meaning; low-context uses explicit communication.
What is Uncertainty Avoidance?
A culture’s tolerance for ambiguity and unpredictability.
What is Achievement vs. Ascription?
Achievement values performance; ascription values status or titles.
What is collaboration?
Both sides work together to find a win–win solution.
What is cultural empathy?
Understanding and respecting another culture’s perspective.
Explain attribution error in intercultural conflict.
When we wrongly assume someone’s behavior is due to their personality, not cultural differences.
Give one example of how Hofstede’s dimensions can create conflict.
A low power-distance person challenging a high power-distance hierarchy.
How can Universalism vs. Particularism create conflict?
Universalists expect strict rules; particularists prioritize relationships over rules.
Why does cultural background matter in conflict resolution?
Cultures differ in directness, emotion, hierarchy, and preferred strategies.
How does cultural identity influence communication?
It shapes how people interpret messages, resolve conflict, and express themselves.