Prejudice In Intercultural Communication

Register to read the introduction… These attitudes are usually based on little to no experience or knowledge. When an individual develops prejudice feelings toward other cultural groups, they tend to not like them because of some unproven or unseen fact. This forms a barrier in intercultural communication because the individual forms a prejudice opinion before they even get a chance to learn another culture's beliefs. Thus, stereotyping can often lead to prejudice. A sure way for one to eliminate prejudice is to get to know individuals from different cultures and their beliefs (Hybels & Weaver, 2007). To take stereotyping and prejudice one step further, we must factor in the discrimination barrier. Discriminating includes the act of exclusion, avoidance, and distancing oneself from other cultural groups. Discrimination is considered a barrier in intercultural communication because it does not allow interaction between different cultural groups. The lack of interaction between these groups inhibits the learning process, therefore, making it difficult to learn about their values and beliefs. …show more content…
It determines how one views the world, and affects almost all of an individual's communication behaviors. Cultural beliefs determine the words and actions of those within that culture and it affects their attitudes and behaviors, while reflecting what is most important to them. Learning about cultural differences can assist one in intercultural communication. Ultimately, when individuals open their hearts and minds, they are much less likely to stereotype, become prejudice, or discriminate against individuals that are different then they are. More over, being open and accepting of others makes intercultural communication a rewarding