Final answer:
Yang's behavior of avoiding eye contact during the counseling session is most likely a reflection of cultural norms where direct eye contact is perceived as disrespectful. Counselors should approach such situations with cultural sensitivity and adjust their communication style to better align with the student's cultural background.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering Yang's behavior of making little eye contact and not actively responding during the college counseling session, it is important not to make assumptions without understanding cultural contexts. The most appropriate interpretation of Yang's behavior is that he may not be using direct eye contact because in his culture it is considered disrespectful. Different cultures have varying norms regarding eye contact, and in some Southeast Asian cultures, direct eye contact can sometimes be seen as confrontational or disrespectful, especially in formal situations or when interacting with authority figures or those of higher social status.
In counseling sessions, it's crucial that the counselor remains aware of these cultural differences and approaches the situation with sensitivity. Rather than assuming Yang is in disagreement, does not understand English, or is resistant to the ideas being presented, the counselor should consider cultural influences. The counselor might then engage Yang in a way that aligns with his cultural perspectives, such as asking open-ended questions, allowing more time for responses, and observing non-verbal cues that indicate understanding or interest.
It's also important to remember that communication styles vary widely across cultures, and what might be considered polite and respectful behavior in one culture may be interpreted quite differently in another. For a successful counseling outcome, acknowledging and respecting these differences can help bridge cultural gaps and facilitate better understanding and communication.