Countercorrection

Countercorrection describes contrary adjustments in the context of intercultural communication.

Examples

In German-Chinese contact, it may happen that Chinese communicate in an emphatically direct manner in order to adapt to the (supposedly) German conversational culture (according to stereotypical ideas). The German side may behave in a particularly reserved and polite manner in order to adapt to the Chinese culture (compare the example here).

Another example: A Japanese is a guest in Germany. The German bows in greeting. At the same time, the Japanese extends his hand to the German. Here, too, we can see what is meant by opposite adaptations.

Globalization

In a globalized world, it can be increasingly assumed that cultural knowledge is increasing globally. This seems to lead increasingly to counter-adaptations. Conflict situations can arise, although exactly the opposite is intended: accommodation and rapprochement.

Countercorrection and hypercorrection are phenomena that arise from an incomplete or incorrect understanding of culture. The reasons usually lie in a lack of experience. Longer contact with another culture can lead to a deeper understanding.

Literature

Günthner, Susanne (1993): Discourse Strategies in Intercultural Communication. Analyses of German-Chinese conversations.

Polfuß, Jonas (2012): Critical cultural assimilator Germany for Chinese participants. In: Interculture Journal, Issue 17, 27-46.