| Chapter 2: | The Challenge of Globalization |
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make decisions wisely. According to Victor (1992), a world where ignorance prevails cannot be a globalized world.
Several organizations including the U.S. government are cognizant of the necessity of providing training to personnel, and giving them the opportunity to develop and practice those skills when immersed in a second culture. The learner should be introduced to the root of her / his culture, that is, the language, both verbal and non-verbal, the political, social and economic factors prior to taking up residence in another country. This training is essential in order to reduce stress because of the psychological pressures associated with interaction with those of another culture. Perry (2004) noted the following discussion:
Major Kirk Geiner: “We realize the importance of treating the Iraqis with respect and trying to gain their respect and trust” …
Corporal Robert McNulty: “They’re teaching us to respect the culture and not be so close-minded about things that are different” …
Globalization is making demands on the need of interpersonal skills in a new environment. Guy (1995) speaks of the “three (3) c’s” and the “three (3) t’s”, which are basic to understanding other cultures. The three c’s are as follows: 1) culture (background), 2) company style and 3) individual character. Similarly, the three t’s are as follows: 1) tactics, 2) timing of activities, and 3) talking / listening. According to Page (1993), the trainer must be able to cope with the learner’s resistance to adapt to defensiveness and frustration. Thus, one becomes aware of the emotional challenge that is encountered in the global community.
Emotional Challenges of Globalization
Stevenson (2004), noted that there are no foreign lands; it is the traveler only who is foreign. Such traveler would find it difficult to put herself or himself in the place of someone who is “different.” People in the U.S. seem to have great difficulty in doing so. For example, the failure to trade with those of another culture, because it is expected that all