Week 7: Differences in Manners 1 June 1, 2020

Week 7: Differences in Manners

1 June 2020

     Hello and welcome to my post about manner differences worldwide. Cultures differ widely, from east to west, and from north to south. One part of it is the manners that people follow in their culture. If you have ever traveled to another country, then you most likely came across at least one cultural difference. 

     Let’s go through these examples of manners that are considered a norm in one culture, and unacceptable in another:

•  eating with your hands on the table
•  putting your feet up on the table and, especially, showing the soles of your feet or shoes
•  walking with your hand in the pocket
•  blowing your nose in public
•  giving a handshake to a person of the opposite sex, or with the left hand
•  addressing people by their first name, regardless of their age
•  being aggressive when discussing a topic (swearing)
•  playing loud music around other people
•  chewing gum in public
•  taking off your shoes when entering someone’s house
•  making certain gestures, by showing the palm of your hand (“okay” sign, “victory” sign, “peace” sign
•  yawning without covering your mouth, etc.

      Now, there are numerous examples of manners that differ from one culture to another. However, when looking at these examples, it comes to mind that there is no right or wrong. There are just different standards in each culture, and foreigners are supposed to adjust and conform to the new habits.

     In TESOL classrooms, where students have diverse backgrounds, teachers should know each of them well. They should not give in to bias, however. Students coming from the same country might not have the same habits and experiences. Therefore, teachers can find out best if they organize culture awareness events for students and parents. In any case, challenges will arise, such as miscommunications and offense (unintended). It can happen between students, as well as teachers and students. So, things should be discussed and resolved to bring the classroom into harmony.

     The culture in Armenia, where I am from, is quite diverse from the west. However, some places and aspects get westernized, especially where youth leads. One thing that could be improved in the local culture is cultural awareness. It is at a very low level, unfortunately. Sadly, there is not much tolerance for diversity in most of the places. With this, I don’t mean that people should change their views. I only would like to raise the level of respect people should show to those who don’t think, look, or speak as they do.

     What are some things you wish were improved in your culture?

 

References

https://video.byui.edu/media/06+Difference+in+Manners/0_xc0a34gb

https://people.howstuffworks.com/13-examples-of-good-and-bad-manners-around-the-world1.htm

Mane Mamajanyan