Especially important in interpersonal communication is the cross-cultural factor. Cross-cultural communication refers to interactions between groups of people who have inherited different sets of values, beliefs, artifacts, and ways of behaving that have been passed down through their environments.
Understanding the role that cross-cultural factors play in communication can be particularly important in ensuring that the intent of both parties is understood without error. The infographic below shows how one instance of communication (namely, the nodding of one’s head) could be misinterpreted if cross-cultural awareness is not incorporated.
