Eth 125

The cognitive aspect of cultural intelligence is a beginning stage in which an individual recognizes that people from other cultures have different beliefs and values (Crowne, 2008). A culturally competent individual understands what the cultural beliefs and values of other cultures are (Bucher, 2008; Hong, 2010; Sharma et al., 2009). Values and beliefs are not easily understood as the beliefs and values may not be fully recognized by the individual who possess them (Hong, 2010). Through an understanding of others’ beliefs and values, one can begin to recognize and understand the verbal and non-verbal cues (Bucher, 2008). These differences are referred to as culture-specific differences (Bucher, 2008; Hong, 2010; Sharma et al., 2009)

Empathy is key trait for a culturally competent individual (Bucher, 2008; Sharma et al., 2009; Thomas & Inkson, 2009). The ability to be empathetic toward another culture means that you are able to step into their shoes and understand what life might be like for them. Empathy is the ability to think about what another person might be thinking or feeling (Hong, 2010). A culturally intelligent individual can be empathetic if one has a level of self-awareness that allows for them to reflect on their own thoughts and feelings. Empathy is important, because it allows the outsider to become part of the other culture through their thoughts and feelings.

A tolerance for uncertainty refers to the level of which an individual manages being outside their comfort zone. The level of tolerance varies amongst cultures and individuals within cultures (Plum, 2008; Thomas & Inkson, 2009).

The knowledge of one’s own culture and values and knowledge of other cultures and values is the starting point for adaptability. A culturally competent individual finds themselves in a situation in which people are required to choose between two sets of values (Hong, 2010). It does not mean that one of the choices is bad or wrong; it simply reflects...