Final answer:
Asians do not typically prefer to maintain direct eye contact during conversation, as it may be seen as disrespectful in some Asian cultures. Nonverbal cues, including eye contact, should be interpreted with cultural context in mind.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether Asians typically prefer to look their counterparts in the eye when engaging in conversation, which can be answered as false. In various Asian cultures, the norms around eye contact differ significantly from those in Western cultures. For instance, in some Asian cultures, prolonged eye contact may be seen as disrespectful or aggressive, especially if it's between a younger person and an older or higher-status individual. Therefore, it is not always appropriate to maintain direct eye contact in every situation.
Cultural context is vital when interpreting nonverbal cues like eye contact. In accordance with the referenced article by Pazain (2010), direct eye contact may convey engagement and attention in some contexts, but in others, it could be perceived negatively. Moreover, the study by Masuda and Nisbett (2001) shows that cultural backgrounds can significantly affect how people perceive and engage with their environment, including social interactions.