Embedded Files
“Americans” Abroad: Dealing with Stereotypes
“Americans” Abroad: Dealing with Stereotypes
Whether you are a US citizen or not, it is likely that at some point you might be singled out as “American” simply because you study at a US institution. How you act and dress will may or may not reinforce common stereotypes of what it means to be American. The point of studying abroad is to immerse yourself in the local culture and not to stand out. At some point, however, you might encounter stereotyping based on perceived or actual “American” attributes, so knowing ahead of time what you might experience will help you deal with it in the moment.
Many cultures may view the stereotypical American as:
- Loud and obnoxious
- Bigoted
- Aggressive
- Whiny
- Entitled/rich
- A “tacky tourist” and not really interested in learning about a different culture
Students studying abroad in election years usually face more comments and concerns than in non-election years. However, even in non-election years, you might experience “anti-Americanism” in the form of:
- Questions
- Being told how America “is” or “is not” a certain way
- Being verbally harassed
- Having judgment passed
- Political opinions expressed
- Emotional outbursts
How do you react when faced with “anti-American” comments or questions?
How do you react when faced with “anti-American” comments or questions?
Do:
Do:
Listen to other’s views
Be respectful (even more so than when at home)
Ignore verbal harassment
Positively discuss the difference of opinion
Be a positive example of what the US represents
Be open-minded to cultural norms
Do Not:
Do Not:
Be confrontational
Tell people the US is superior to...
Be rude
Lecture people
Take it personally
Prove the stereotype is correct!
It will be helpful if you keep up with currents events both in the US and in your host country so you will be comfortable responding to questions and comments. It is also best not to bring up controversial subjects like politics, gender inequality, religion, etc. the first time you are speaking with someone.
Communication Styles
Communication Styles
Communication styles vary from person to person and within cultures. Be aware of non-verbal communication styles in your host country. When talking to someone in your host country, observe their personal communication style so you can respond in an appropriate manner. The non-verbal aspects of communication may carry significant messages that are often not clear to someone from another culture. Pay attention to:
- Facial expressions or eye contact
- Touching
- Personal distance
- Hand gestures
- Greetings and pace of verbal exchanges
Be sure to research what is appropriate in your host country.
Look at every encounter as a learning experience that will increase your cross-cultural competency, a valuable skill to future employers and to yourself.
More resources:
- Types of Nonverbal Communication
- https://source.wustl.edu/2017/07/six-tips-cross-cultural-communication/
- http://www.pbs.org/ampu/crosscult.html
- https://online.pointpark.edu/business/cultural-differences-in-nonverbal-communication/
- https://www2.pacific.edu/sis/culture/pub/1.5.3_-_Communication_styles.htm
- https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/dealing-stereotypes-while-studying-abroad
Page updated
Report abuse