The role of intercultural communication sensitivity in overcoming cultural barriers

This study investigated the relationship between intercultural communication sensitivity and the culturally developed variables of emotional intelligence, ethnocentrism. multicultural ideology, patriotism and cultural identity. Correlation analysis was used to investigate the retationship between each unique variable and intercultural communication sensitivity. The survey instrument developed to analyze each relationship was created by previously determined scales with proven reliability and validity scores which ensured result integrity. A sample of 419 undergraduate college students completed questionnaires on a confidential and voluntary basis. Questionnaires made up of six sections measured intercultural communication sensitivity, emotional intelligence, ethnocentrism. multicultural ideology. patriotism and cultural identity. Data were collected from two universities in Northern California-one small private institution and one large; public institution. Through careful analysis, results supported previous literature and proposed hypotheses. Intercultural communication :sensitivity was positively correlated to emotional intelligence and multicultural ideology and negatively correlated to ethnocentrism, patriotism and cultural identity. The results reported in this study is valuable information for individuals in professional and personal contexts who desire to understand factors that may affect their ability to effectively, appropriately and successfully engage in intercultural and international interactions. The results presented may be key for improving intercultural and international relations due to improved communication