APA Handbook of Intercultural Communication - 9781433807787

In today's globalized world of international contact and multicultural interaction, effective intercultural communication is increasingly a prerequisite for social harmony and organizational success. The APA Handbook of Intercultural Communication illustrates how the practical, problem-solving approach of applied linguistics can illuminate a range of issues that arise in real-life intercultural interaction. Experts from a range of social science disciplines, including psychology, applied thoughts, and anthropology, describe, analyze, and where possible, propose solutions to language-related problems.

This book presents theoretical and applied examinations of topics that have contemporary relevance in intercultural settings, including power, dominance, discrimination, social boundaries, taboos, conflict, and identity. Applied chapters cover intercultural communication in school, work, and health care settings as well as in intimate relationships and in training environments.

When we use language to interact with one another, we become involved in a continuous and dynamic process of exchange. This fact makes interpersonal communication a fascinating area for behavioral research. During the give-and-take of discourse, the communicators exchange facts, ideas, views, opinions, emotions, and intentions in such a way as to enhance or impede social relationships; create, maintain, and adapt identities; and create or resolve conflicts. In the APA Handbook of Interpersonal Communication, distinguished scholars apply the problem-solving perspectives of applied linguistics to answer fundamental questions.

The volume is divided into two parts that examine both theoretical and applied topics. Thus, the contributors critically appraise the relevance of applied linguistics to not only understanding but also solving everyday language-related problems.