Introduction

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3a Describe the different types of intercultural relationships (CLO 1, CLO 3, CLO 4)
3b Describe the foundations of intercultural relationships (CLO 3)

Intercultural relationships include friendships and romances. Such relationships are becoming more common and require conscious effort to handle the unique complexities inherent intercultural exchanges. Intercultural relationships offer opportunities for personal growth and challenge participants who have different values and communication styles. As we saw in our earlier discussion of conflict, managing motivation and negotiation through differences may require strategies like submission, compromise, and finding commonalities. Conflict may also occur between loved ones who do not understand our relationships. Part of the adventure of building intercultural relationships is the commitment to a lifetime of learning about the cultures different from our own. In this reading we will explore the benefits and challenges of intercultural relationships, as well as the different types of intercultural relationships. Take note of the foundations of intercultural relationships and the process of relationship building. Of course, communication plays a critical role in the success of these relationships.

Establishing relationships with people from cultures different than your own can be challenging. How do you get to know them? Should you treat those relationships differently than same culture relationships? Does society influence these new relationships? Learning new customs and traditions can be fun and exciting, but also force us to identify what we think that we know about ourselves along with our prejudices and fears. This chapter will help you gain a better understanding of what to expect when interacting with people that are culturally different from yourself. We will explore the benefits and challenges of intercultural relationships, discuss the different kinds of intercultural relationships, and encourage you with strategies to build solid intercultural relationships.

Source: Karen Krumrey
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