This study investigated certain aspects of the cross-cultural adaptation process of Afghan returnees who have repatriated from Iran to Afghanistan. The study’s particular focus is the issue of cross-cultural adaptation in the current context of Afghanistan; that is, what challenges face Afghans returning from Iran to their country of origin following years of exile in Iran. Afghan immigration to Iran has a long history. Using Young Yun Kim’s cross-cultural adaptation theory as the leading theoretical framework, the researcher investigated the cultural adaptation of those who have lived in Iran for more than 10 years and have repatriated voluntarily to Afghanistan at least three years before the data for this thesis were gathered. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for collecting primary data from participants for the thesis. Twelve young returnees from Kabul City, aged 18 to 40, volunteered to take part in the interviews. Results revealed that language barriers, cultural knowledge and environmental challenges were some of the dominant difficulties that returnees experienced after their repatriation. Furthermore, the findings showed that the three main strategies used by the young returnees to adapt to their unfamiliar, new environment of Kabul City included social interaction, using mass media, and keeping an open mind on current issues. The findings of the interviews revealed the ongoing changing nature of identity formation of the returnees after their repatriation to Afghanistan and, also the majority of participants (9 out of 12) voiced a strong sense of belonging and attachment to Afghanistan.

This study investigated certain aspects of the cross-cultural adaptation process of Afghan returnees who have repatriated from Iran to Afghanistan. The study’s particular focus is the issue of cross-cultural adaptation in the current context of Afghanistan; that is, what challenges face Afghans returning from Iran to their country of origin following years of exile in Iran. Afghan immigration to Iran has a long history. Using Young Yun Kim’s cross-cultural adaptation theory as the leading theoretical framework, the researcher investigated the cultural adaptation of those who have lived in Iran for more than 10 years and have repatriated voluntarily to Afghanistan at least three years before the data for this thesis were gathered. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for collecting primary data from participants for the thesis. Twelve young returnees from Kabul City, aged 18 to 40, volunteered to take part in the interviews. Results revealed that language barriers, cultural knowledge and environmental challenges were some of the dominant difficulties that returnees experienced after their repatriation. Furthermore, the findings showed that the three main strategies used by the young returnees to adapt to their unfamiliar, new environment of Kabul City included social interaction, using mass media, and keeping an open mind on current issues. The findings of the interviews revealed the ongoing changing nature of identity formation of the returnees after their repatriation to Afghanistan and, also the majority of participants (9 out of 12) voiced a strong sense of belonging and attachment to Afghanistan.

This dissertation examines factors that explain interactions between undergraduate African and African American students enrolled at one Historically Black University (HBCU). It explores beliefs, cultural and contextual factors that shed light on interactions across the two categories of students. The research 1) identifies factors that explain inter‐group interaction; 2) analyzes identified factors; and 3) examines their impact on overall attitudes, behaviors, interactions, and relations across the two groups. Identity theory and social identity theory are applied to explain interaction patterns. Both theoretical frameworks acknowledge the importance of the individual’s goals and purposes and apply conceptions of the self in exploring identity formation. While identity theory focuses on social structural arrangements and the link between persons, social identity theory focuses on characteristics of situations in which the identity may be activated. These theories show how interpersonal and intergroup interactions merge into identities, generate and change social limitations, and build social relationships. Data were collected using surveys and through in‐depth individual and focusgroup interviews. Thirty‐one (31) participants were interviewed individually, and three focus‐group interviews were conducted with 14, 16 and 17 participants respectively. Two more large‐group sessions of 33 and 51 participants also contributed information for the study. Participants were observed in their university setting. Web documents and course syllabi were analyzed for applicable information. The study finds that cultural differences, perceptions and misconceptions about the out‐group, and lack of balanced knowledge about the out‐group, contribute to minimal inter‐group interaction. In addition, increased intercultural knowledge and exposure lead to enhanced inter‐group identification and interaction, and ultimately functioned to minimize misconceptions and advance inter‐group understanding. Understanding cultural and other differences between Africans and African Americans as an integral part of inter‐group relationships enables people to be more accepting and accommodating of difference and of one another. Also, engaging members of both groups in discussions about inter‐group interactions raised awareness and developed in them a critical stance toward their own responsiveness to others they may consider different.

The purpose of this research is to explore the communication and interaction between westerners and Chinese people in western bars in the touristic town of Yangshuo in southern China. Yangshuo is worldly famous for its breath-taking Karst Mountains, rice fields and water buffalos. It has attracted millions of visitors annually, both domestic and international. The tourist center of Yangshuo consists of a main street, West Street, and many other small streets around it. In recent years, bars and night clubs have been established, bringing a more modern and western atmosphere to the main tourist streets that are paved in marble and lined with ancient buildings. This research is focused on bars, western bars in particular, as a unique setting for intercultural communication and interaction. First of all, this research introduces a background of intercultural communication definitions, the link between bars and tourism in China, as well as international tourism in China. With the goal of understanding the intercultural phenomena in bars through conversations and observations, I explored the role of bars in the community, the social and intercultural situations in bars, and the reflection and outcome of those communication and interaction. Field work was conducted in July and August 2010, by using both qualitative and quantitative research methods: questionnaire survey and ethnographic participant observation. I was able to obtain a broad perception of the subject as well as detailed description from participants, including myself. A broad range of literature related to bars and spaces in leisure and tourism, as well as in the fields of intercultural communication, intercultural host-guest relationship in tourism, tourism and cultural understanding, and tourist experience were reviewed. The gaps in the literature were identified. Limited research was done by addressing the actual situations of intercultural communication and linking the social and intercultural theories with actual practice, especially in a tourism context. Also, the role of western bars, as a new form of recreational, cultural and social space in China needed more attention. Chapter four and five present major findings of this research. Informants were divided into five groups: western tourists, local westerners (westerners who have become residents), Chinese tourists, Chinese students studying English in Yangshuo, and local residents. Preliminary findings from questionnaire survey indicate that westerners and Chinese people have difference reasons for visiting Yangshuo and going to bars. Bars have both social and recreational functions for westerners but are of less interest to and have more limited functions as attractions to Chinese tourists. Local residents have the least interest in western bars but Chinese students often go to them, mainly to practice English with foreigners. Detailed analysis of qualitative data suggests intercultural communication and interaction have difference purposes and styles for the different groups. Students, locals who work in the bars and local westerners have most contact with western tourists. Chinese tourists tend to interact with westerners in non-verbal ways, such as in games and photo-taking. Language is a major communication barrier but westerners made more effort to overcome this, reflecting both desire and need as visitors in a foreign land. The research findings can seek theoretical explanation through many social and intercultural theories. They suggest tourist-host interaction and communication has been overrated, especially when tourists are travelling in a different culture. The level of contact and cultural understanding is relatively superficial, but more meaningful than mere commercial exchanges. The trend of globalization and cultural homogeneity was well recognized by both cultural groups. The acknowledgement of cultural difference and interaction between customers should be encouraged and facilitated in bars, in order to create an authentic bar experience and nurture effective intercultural communication.

The purpose of this research is to explore the communication and interaction between westerners and Chinese people in western bars in the touristic town of Yangshuo in southern China. Yangshuo is worldly famous for its breath-taking Karst Mountains, rice fields and water buffalos. It has attracted millions of visitors annually, both domestic and international. The tourist center of Yangshuo consists of a main street, West Street, and many other small streets around it. In recent years, bars and night clubs have been established, bringing a more modern and western atmosphere to the main tourist streets that are paved in marble and lined with ancient buildings. This research is focused on bars, western bars in particular, as a unique setting for intercultural communication and interaction. First of all, this research introduces a background of intercultural communication definitions, the link between bars and tourism in China, as well as international tourism in China. With the goal of understanding the intercultural phenomena in bars through conversations and observations, I explored the role of bars in the community, the social and intercultural situations in bars, and the reflection and outcome of those communication and interaction. Field work was conducted in July and August 2010, by using both qualitative and quantitative research methods: questionnaire survey and ethnographic participant observation. I was able to obtain a broad perception of the subject as well as detailed description from participants, including myself. A broad range of literature related to bars and spaces in leisure and tourism, as well as in the fields of intercultural communication, intercultural host-guest relationship in tourism, tourism and cultural understanding, and tourist experience were reviewed. The gaps in the literature were identified. Limited research was done by addressing the actual situations of intercultural communication and linking the social and intercultural theories with actual practice, especially in a tourism context. Also, the role of western bars, as a new form of recreational, cultural and social space in China needed more attention. Chapter four and five present major findings of this research. Informants were divided into five groups: western tourists, local westerners (westerners who have become residents), Chinese tourists, Chinese students studying English in Yangshuo, and local residents. Preliminary findings from questionnaire survey indicate that westerners and Chinese people have difference reasons for visiting Yangshuo and going to bars. Bars have both social and recreational functions for westerners but are of less interest to and have more limited functions as attractions to Chinese tourists. Local residents have the least interest in western bars but Chinese students often go to them, mainly to practice English with foreigners. Detailed analysis of qualitative data suggests intercultural communication and interaction have difference purposes and styles for the different groups. Students, locals who work in the bars and local westerners have most contact with western tourists. Chinese tourists tend to interact with westerners in non-verbal ways, such as in games and photo-taking. Language is a major communication barrier but westerners made more effort to overcome this, reflecting both desire and need as visitors in a foreign land. The research findings can seek theoretical explanation through many social and intercultural theories. They suggest tourist-host interaction and communication has been overrated, especially when tourists are travelling in a different culture. The level of contact and cultural understanding is relatively superficial, but more meaningful than mere commercial exchanges. The trend of globalization and cultural homogeneity was well recognized by both cultural groups. The acknowledgement of cultural difference and interaction between customers should be encouraged and facilitated in bars, in order to create an authentic bar experience and nurture effective intercultural communication.

This study investigates how social interaction affects newly arrived pupils’ views on their study situation in the Swedish educational system. The aim is to give a contribution to the discussion on the notion of including “the Other” in educational practice in multicultural schools. Semi-structured group interviews were conducted to explore how the intercultural perspective and the theory of inclusion can be used to explain the dynamics of social interaction. The main research questions were: how did social interaction take place in preparatory class and in regular class? In what way did social interaction affect the transitional period from preparatory class to regular class? Did social interaction have consequences for the informants as learners? The results show that newly arrived pupils had the opportunity to develop intercultural interaction skills in the preparatory class. Meanwhile, this organization meant educational exclusion, which might have contributed to the stress and anxiety they experienced later in regular class. The transitional period was problematic, since students had to struggle in two aspects. First, they had to catch up in many subjects though no significant measures were taken to their linguistic ability and former school experiences. Secondly, they had to assert their place in an environment with dysfunctional social interaction between some teachers and pupils in regular class. The conclusion is that schools have a dilemma in catering for both social and educational inclusion simultaneously. Despite this, many pupils expressed satisfaction with their school performance. This suggests that intercultural interaction skills, crucial for the pupils’ development, can be developed in the preparatory class. Schools need to implement an intercultural perspective in the educational organization and planning to include every newly arrived pupil. This calls for a holistic approach in pedagogic and social interaction between everyone involved.

No description available.

This thesis focuses on the issue of body decoration, its meaning and function in culture and society. Main interest of this thesis is aimed on jewellery and its field of the visual state. Thesis divides main issue into following points: selection of the main functions of each kind of jewellery, material and technology, world point of view of cultures, main principles of its order, and main thematic fields. At the end of the thesis is briefly sketched changing approach to the genuine author jewellery. Thesis includes examples based on jewellery history accompanied by pictures and drawings. European tradition is stressed throughout all thesis. The thesis aims on the issue of cultural and social background and its influence on visual state of jewellery. The didactical part includes description of the possibilities in the field of pedagogical activity in the field described in the main part of paper.

Магистерская диссертация посвящена особенностям межкультурной коммуникации России и Казахстана в процессе евразийской интеграции (на примере ЕАЭС). Цель данного исследования анализ межкультурной коммуникации России и Казахстана в евразийской интеграции (на примере ЕАЭС) и рекомендации специалистам по межкультурной коммуникации по разработке механизма межкультурной коммуникации в евразийской интеграции. Структура работы состоит из двух глав: теоретической и практической. В теоретической части рассматриваются теоретические аспекты: межкультурное взаимодействие в контексте парадигм глобализации, интеграции; феномен межкультурной коммуникации как взаимодействие двух языковых картин мира в евразийской интеграции, а также лингвистические проблемы межкультурной коммуникации в Евразийском пространстве. В практической части анализируется источниковедческая база, интернациональность политической и экономической терминологии как следствие межкультурной коммуникации и глобализационных процессов; коннотации и символы культуры, их интерпретация в межкультурной коммуникации России и Казахстана, а также предлагаются рекомендации специалистам по межкультурной коммуникации по разработке механизма межкультурной коммуникации в евразийской интеграции. После анализа значительного количества источников становится очевидным, что для участников делового общения межкультурной коммуникации в рамках евразийской интеграции характерна общность пресуппозитивной базы знаний, которая понимается как наличие предварительных сведений и знаний, общего житейского и профессионального опыта. Это можно объяснить многолетним знакомством деловых коммуникантов, взаимностью интересов, совместной долгосрочной профессиональной деятельностью, краткосрочным совместным опытом, важным лишь для данного высказывания. / The master dissertation is devoted to the features of intercultural communication between Russia and Kazakhstan in the process of Eurasian integration (on the example of the EAEU). The purpose of this study is to analyze the intercultural communication of Russia and Kazakhstan in the Eurasian integration (using the example of the EAEU) and recommendations to specialists in intercultural communication on the development of a mechanism for intercultural communication in the Eurasian integration. The structure of the work consists of two chapters: theoretical and practical. In the theoretical part, the theoretical aspects are considered: intercultural interaction in the context of the paradigms of globalization, integration; the phenomenon of intercultural communication as the interaction of two linguistic worldviews in Eurasian integration, as well as linguistic problems of intercultural communication in the Eurasian space. The practical part analyzes the source base, the internationality of political and economic terminology as a consequence of intercultural communication and globalization processes; connotations and symbols of culture, their interpretation in the intercultural communication of Russia and Kazakhstan, as well as recommendations are offered to specialists in intercultural communication on the development of a mechanism for intercultural communication in Eurasian integration. After analyzing a significant number of sources, it becomes obvious that participants in business communication of intercultural communication within the framework of Eurasian integration are characterized by a common presuppositive knowledge base, which is understood as the presence of preliminary information and knowledge, common everyday and professional experience. This can be explained by the long-term acquaintance of business communicants, mutual interests, joint long-term professional activity, short-term joint experience, important only for this statement.

The paper is devoted to the analysis of intercultural interaction of Russia and Japan in the last third of the 20th century and in the beginning of the 20th century. A special attention is paid to formation and transformation of mutual images of Russia and Japan in national minds of the countries stated. The author indicates the function of political factors influenced the formation of images of both countries and its incidence on cultural interaction, shows the transformation of mutual images of Russia and Japan in the dynamics of historical development / Работа посвящена анализу межкультурного взаимодействия России и Японии в последней трети XIX – начале XX вв., особое внимание уделено вопросу формирования и трансформации взаимных образов России и Японии в сознании народов этих стран. Автор раскрывает роль политических факторов повлиявших на формирование имиджа обеих стран и степень их влияния на культурное взаимодействие, показывает трансформацию взаимных образов России и Японии в динамике исторического развития.