Drawbacks With Lack of Knowledge

Misunderstandings and misinterprations often occur around the world due to the lack of knowledge people possess about different cultures. By not having a clear understanding of what certain nonverbal gestures mean in another culture, you may give off the wrong message. For example, a thumbs up in Canada may mean something else in another country. Another example may be smiling. Universally, we smile to show content and frown to show discomfort. But in Japan, a woman smiles to hide her happiness as well as sorrow. Thus, by taking the time to learn about other cultures, we facilitate the communicating process.