Cross cultural understanding: a handbook to understand others’ cultures

B.
 
Dealing with Cultural Conflict 
All kinds of cultural conflicts as the result of 
ethnocentrism, misinterpretation, and stereotype can be 
prevented by increasing awareness of our own attitude and 
sensitivity to cross cultural differences.
There are some ways dealing with cultural conflict: 
-
If we are subjected to upsetting or offensive behavior, or if 
you witness such a thing happening to someone else, clearly, 
firmly and simply state that the behavior is upsetting. 
-
If the behavior is offensive, but not threatening or aggressive, 
whether the person apologises or says nothing, let it go the 
first time. 
-
If the behaviour is threatening or aggressive, or if the 
offensive behaviour recurs, tell someone and follow the 
guidelines. 
-
If we feel unable to confront the situation directly, or if we 
are unsure about whether or not to act upon something 
promptly, discuss the issue with someone such as a friend, 
colleague, supervisor, employee advisor, or councelor. 
-
No matter who is involved in the negative interaction, 
whether the offensive behaviour is directed at us or we 

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114 | Cross Cultural Understanding 
witness it happen to someone else, it is important that some 
action is taken promptly.
EXERCISE 1: 
1.
How could misunderstanding create negative feelings and 
confusion? 
2.
What is meant by cultural conflict? 
3.
What kinds of cultural conflicts exist in a heterogeneous 
society? 
4.
Find the examples where stereotypes turned to hatred that 
cause cultural conflict! 
5.
In your opinion, in what areas of culture create the most 
serious problems in intercultural communication? 
Explain!