High Context vs Low Context Covert and Implicit Messages internalised Much non-verbal coding Reactions reserved Distinct ingroups and outgroups Strong Interpersonal bonds Commitment high Time open and flexible Overt and explicit Messages plainly coded Details verbalised Reactions on the surface Flexible ingroups and outgroups Fragile Interpersonal bonds Commitment low Time highly organised

High Context vs Low Context

“High Context” vs. “Low Context” Cultures Hall (1976) describes as being either high or low context cultures High – have strong interpersonal bonds and extensive networks with members of their in- group. Low – compartmentalize their personal relationships; they prefer lots of background information

The Face, Hands, Touch Face – primary transmitter of emotional cues (Happy, sad, frustrated) Hand – hand movement is primary means of showing intensity Touch – Hall (1983) says it is the most fundamental part of the human experience. Include such things as hugging, kissing, shaking hands, and clasping shoulders. – High context cultures – touch is an intrinsic part of communication – Low context cultures – NOT intrinsic part of communication

Space How much space do people need? High Context Cultures – prefer close distances when speaking to one another Low Context Cultures – prefer far away distances when speaking to one another Most common misunderstanding of communication across cultures.