Cross-cultural Communication in Southeast Asia A Biblical and Psychological Perspective
Main Article Content
Abstract
We are living in a time when communication across different cultures has become an inevitable element for a successful global movement. If we have to be part of the fulfillment of the prophecy about the Gospel to be preached all over the world (Matt 24:14; 28:19), a thorough understanding of cross-cultural communication becomes indispensable. As culture is dynamic, so is cross-cultural communication. Thus, it is important to consider the Biblical, psychological and research-based facts in designing an outreach that targets a certain cultural group. This article focuses on elements that are important to consider in forming an effective cross-cultural communication in a number of Southeast Asian countries where Buddhism plays an important role in the culture. It reviews cross-cultural encounters recorded in the Bible and explores their significance in this age. In addition, it suggests practical approaches based on psychological spectrums such as collectivism verses individualism, cognitive versus affective persuasion and medium of persuasion. It is vital to revise one’s strategy according to the light and understanding we come across as this world changes every moment.
Article Details
Copyright: Asia-Pacific International University reserve exclusive rights to publish, reproduce and distribute the manuscript and all contents therein.
References
Myers, D. G. (2010). Social Psychology (10th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
West, R., & Turner, L. (2007). Communication Theory: Analysis and Application (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
White, E. G. (1982). Gospel Workers. Battle Creek, MI: Review and Herald Publishing Co.
Shiraev, E. B., & Levy, D. A. (2010). Cross-Cultural Psychology (4th ed.). Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
Brunning, R. H., Schraw, G., Norby, M., & Ronning, R. R. (2004). Cognitive Psychology and Instruction (4th ed.).New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc.;
Aronson, E., Wilson, T. D., & Akert, R. M. (2004). Social Psychology (5th ed.).New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc.
Goldstein, E. B. (2011). Cognitive Psychology (3rd ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth;
Reed, S. K. (2000). Cognition (5th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.
Chance, P. (2009). Learning and Behavior: Active Learning Edition (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth;
Santrock, J. W. (2003). Psychology (7th ed.). Singapore: McGraw-Hill.
Ivey, A. E., Ivey, M. B., & Zalaquett, C. P. (2010). Intentional Interviewing and Counseling (7th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole, p. 21.