Question

According to Zaharna (2000), which of the following communication styles (also called "cultural continuums") would be best characterized by the following: tend to place more meaning in the language code and very little meaning in the context. For this reason, communication tends to be specific, explicit, and analytical (Ting-Toomey, 1985). In analyzing messages, tendency to focus on "what was said" and give literal meaning to each word.

a) High-context communication
b) Low-context communication
c) Audience-centric communication
d) Source-centric communication

Answer 1

The communication style described is low-context communication, which values explicit language and a literal understanding of words, with less emphasis on context and non-verbal cues.

Step-by-step explanation:

The communication style described in the student's question is indicative of low-context communication. This style is characterized by a dependency on explicit, direct, and clear messages, where most of the information is expected to be in the transmitted message rather than implied or understood from the context.

In low-context cultures, individuals tend to interpret information based on what was precisely said. They focus closely on the words themselves and expect these words to convey the full message. Such cultures often value straightforwardness and analytical thinking in communication, and there is less reading between the lines compared to high-context cultures where the context, non-verbal cues, and historical relationships play a significant role in the interpretation of messages.

Therefore, based on the characteristics provided: specific, explicit, and analytical communication, the focus on "what was said," and giving literal meaning to words, the appropriate answer is low-context communication.