Cultural interference refers to difficulties or misunderstandings that arise in communication, not caused by the language system itself, but by the culture that the language reflects.
Understanding Cultural Interference
Based on the provided reference, cultural interference stems from the differences in cultural norms, realities, or phenomena that are deeply embedded within a language's use, rather than issues with grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation (which are typical linguistic interference).
It highlights how culture significantly shapes how language is used and interpreted. When individuals from different cultural backgrounds communicate, they might apply the communication norms of their native culture to the new context, leading to friction or misunderstanding.
How Cultural Interference Manifests
Cultural interference can occur even when cultures appear to share similar concepts or behaviors. The key is the unequal or different way these concepts are expressed or enacted.
According to the reference, interference can be caused by:
- Realities and phenomena that exist in different cultures but are understood or handled differently.
- Norms of behavior that are similar in different cultures but have distinct rules or applications.
A prime example given is unequal forms of speech etiquette.
Examples of Cultural Interference (Related to Speech Etiquette & Norms)
Consider how cultural differences impact communication beyond just the words used:
- Forms of Address: Using first names versus formal titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) or formal 'you' forms ('Sie' in German, 'usted' in Spanish) versus informal 'you' forms ('du' in German, 'tú' in Spanish) can vary greatly and cause offense if misapplied according to cultural norms.
- Directness vs. Indirectness: Some cultures value direct communication, while others prefer indirectness to maintain harmony or politeness. A direct request might sound rude in an indirect culture, and an indirect hint might be completely missed in a direct culture.
- Interrupting: The acceptable timing and frequency of interrupting in conversation differ widely between cultures.
- Personal Space: Norms around physical distance during conversation are cultural.
- Silence: The role and interpretation of silence in communication vary; in some cultures, silence can indicate agreement or thoughtfulness, while in others, it might signify discomfort or disagreement.
These examples show how cultural norms, like those governing "speech etiquette," can lead to interference when expectations based on one culture are applied to another.
Why Cultural Interference Matters
Recognizing cultural interference is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication. It helps individuals understand that communication breakdowns might not be due to a lack of language proficiency but a difference in cultural understanding and application of communication rules.
Avoiding Cultural Interference
Mitigating cultural interference requires cultural awareness and sensitivity:
- Increase Cultural Knowledge: Learn about the communication norms, values, and etiquette of the target culture.
- Observe and Adapt: Pay attention to how native speakers interact and adjust your communication style accordingly.
- Seek Clarification: Don't assume understanding; ask clarifying questions if unsure about an interaction.
- Be Patient and Empathetic: Recognize that misunderstandings can happen and approach them with patience and a willingness to learn.
- Learn Beyond Language: Focus on understanding the cultural context in which the language is used, especially regarding social interactions and behavior norms.
By understanding that cultural interference is driven by cultural differences reflected in language use – such as varying norms of speech etiquette – communicators can better navigate intercultural exchanges.
