Communication and Culture

Yes, I do communicate differently with different groups and cultures.  I realized early in life that it was imperative to know how to speak to different people and groups.  I spoke to adults at; school, church, library, concerts, home, and I also  have friends.  I had to know what language that was necessary to use for each of the groups.  Of cause I used slang to my friends on the block, howeve,r I had a different slang for my friends at school because they were of another culture.  I dared not use slang to adults, howeve,r the language I used with my family was less formal than the language I used to the adults at my church, school, and library.  The early lessons in communication aided my in the communication skills that I had to develop later in life.   

     Now I try to understand the different culture communication patterns, than I try to stay within those cultural guidelines.  My Latino families’ culture recognizes the father as the head of household, and all question must be posed to him until he gives his wife permission to speak on his behalf.  The same protocol is used for the Middle Eastern families, however, they rarely emit their authority to any female in the family.   For some of my younger neighborhood parents, I have found the best way to enter their circle is to speak a little ghetto-eese with them, this lightens up our relationship because it gives them a sense that I understand where they are coming from, and that I do not think that I am  above them.  Of cause I speak to my grandparents very respectfully, and based on their understanding of the subject matter, I try to explain slowly and clearly.

     We all have a culture regardless of where we are from, and if someone disrespects our culture that someone will close the communication doors shut.  I am always aware of who I am speaking to, this allows me to address them properly.