Throughout the week I was working with my client. I has been having a really hard time communicating with the family memebers of the client. They are from Russia and don’t speak the best English. I have been having to use “communication accommodation theory, people are especially motivated to adapt their communication when they seek social approval, when they wish to establish relationships with others, and when they view others’ language use as appropriate “(pg 140)
There is so many cultural barriers between us and the family. We have had to really learn about their culture and use world mindfulness to understand what is appropriate in their culture. Especially when it comes to giving gifts and food. Every time we go over they keep offering us gifts and food at first we were not able to accept because of company policy but we talked to our supervisor and they approved of us taking some gifts or food because it was becoming really awkward between us and almost coming off as rude. Now that we are able to accept something it is had because I have lots of problems with food that I accept but sometimes get sick but I would rather get sick then disrespect their culture. Through learning about their culture, we have learned so much. I even know some words in Russian. I also learned that babies and small children takes naps outside for good disposition.
” Intercultural competence, the ability to communicate appropriately, effectively, and ethically with people from diverse backgrounds.”(pg. 138) I has been difficult at times to understand each other and work cooperatively to meet the needs of the child but some how we are making it work. This has been such an eye open experience getting to know them and their culture. I want to go visit Russia now and use all the new words that I have learned.
Caroline's blog 