Chen & Starosta - A review of the concept of intercultural awareness
Chen, G.-M., & Starosta, W. J. (1998). A review of the concept of intercultural awareness. Human Communication, vol. 2, 1998-1999, pp. 27-54.
This paper is a noted contribution to the development of the field of intercultural sensitivity studies. Due to the previous lack of studies on the subject, it aimed (1) to provide a conceptualisation of intercultural sensitivity, (2) to specify the role intercultural sensitivity plays in intercultural training programs, (3) to delineate the components of intercultural sensitivity, and (4) to critique and suggest directions for future study in this line of research.
As a result, a working definition of intercultural sensitivity was generated and its components examined. The analysis included: (1) self-esteem; (2) self-monitoring; (3) open-mindedness; (4) empathy; (5) interactional involvement; and (6) non-judgement. In addition, the confusion among intercultural awareness, intercultural sensitivity, and intercultural competence was discussed, and future directions for research in intercultural sensitivity were suggested.
Chen & Starosta “A review of the concept of intercultural awareness”