Countries and cultures have created subtle, sometimes ritualistic ways, of informing other people of unpleasant information. U.S. Americans prefer the most direct approach possible. They tend to be honest and even blunt in delivering negative evaluations and may do so publicly. U.S. Americans consider anything other than a direct and open approach to be dishonest and insincere; they quickly lose confidence in and distrust anyone who hints at what is intended rather than saying it outright. Anyone who chooses to use an intermediary to deliver bad news may be considered manipulative and untrustworthy.
- Why do you agree or disagree that this describes U.S. Americans?
- How might a U.S. American's practice of openness and honesty cause misunderstandings when communicating with a person that is more indirect such as someone from Asian or the Middle East? Be specific and include an example.