Cultural Barriers

Culture can be defined as shared ways of behaving such as manners, customs, beliefs, ideas, morals, values, etc. Various cultures act in various ways and this is what gives a person their cultural identity. Therefore, if an understanding is to be established between crew members of various cultures, every person should try to understand the other's cultural identity and their way of life and thinking.  

A cultural barrier in communication usually occurs between two individuals of different cultural backgrounds. Although cultural barriers are encountered in everyday life, onboard ships it's a norm, hence the importance of mutual understanding between fellow crew members to ensure effective and efficient communication and to create good human relations. The main roots of cultural barriers include but are not limited to:

• Language.
• Norms.
• Values and Beliefs.
• Stereotypes.
• Body Language.

Language 

Language is considered to be one of the key barriers in cross-cultural communication. This, unfortunately, occurs not only because of the different mother tongues but also because of dialects even though people come from the same country. When a common language is used, such barriers can be mitigated, although sometimes when using a common language if one person is not aware of the exact meaning, a misunderstanding will still be created which might lead to conflicts and disputes.

Norms 

Every culture holds its norms and values, and an example of that would be physical closeness. In western countries, everyone is given their own space and physical closeness is only shown to family and friends, whilst in eastern countries such as India, physical closeness is not regarded in that way and this can be seen when it comes to huge, crowded environments found in these countries. 

Values and Beliefs

Differences in values and beliefs in various cultures is another root of cultural barrier.  An example would be the differences in the levels of acceptability of something specific in the various cultures. 

Stereotypes

Stereotypes are created by mass media and reflect a negative or positive image of a particular nationality and identity. The main example of a negative stereotype would be the role and respect for women in various cultures. As clearly stated above, a stereotype can also be positive such as the notion that Italians are great at art although it is positive, it is still not entirely true and varies from person to person. 

Body Language 

Body language or gestures are other elements contributing to a cultural barrier. Body language is a part of every person and it comes naturally. With that said, in conservative societies when a person is to be greeted various factors should be kept in mind, such as the culture and gender of that person. In certain cultures, shaking hands or hugging a person of the opposite gender is considered rude or even a moral crime, whilst in others, it is common practice and a sign of respect. 

Dealing with Cultural Barriers

To ensure effective and good communication, the cultural barriers onboard should be overcome. This is done by crew members going the extra mile to understand and put themselves in the other’s shoes. By talking about one’s culture, people can learn what is acceptable and what is not and hence what should be avoided when communicating. When doing so, the following should be kept in mind:

• When using signs, body language, and gestures ensure that they are mutual.
• Use a common language.
• If in doubt, ask questions.
• Ensure that personal space is provided.
• Ensure mutual respect.
• Be open-minded and adaptable.
• Accept all different cultures.
• Avoid stereotypes.
• Encourage positive reception of cultural differences.
• Learn and show interest in other cultures and their norms.

When this is done, good human relation is developed with the various crew members regardless of their cultures. This results in a happy and safer working environment.