Tuesday, August 10, 2010

*One of the most interesting concept in class*

In Chapter 5, Cultural Display Rules was touched on. "People in some cultures learn to be "stone-faced" and stoic, whereas those in other countries learn to be highly expressive." (Trenholm. P. 119) In America, both gender's are taught to show emotion differently. For men, they're taught not to show emotion and not to fear. Women, are more free to express themselves with emotions and display of smiles. Even though when smiling at a man, they may suddenly think the girl is interested, when that isn't the case, may just be friendly to all. "In Japan, the smile is not only a way to express happiness, but it also a way to reduce embarrassment and promote harmony." (Trenholm. P. 119) I found this interesting, because we live in a very diverse area, with all kinds of different cultures. And I think it's important to understand each culture's non-verbal, in this case the emotion and what it means to smile. It's also a good thing to keep in mind, while next time passing by someone in a different culture.

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