Cross-Language Communication

Essay # 111144

Communication > Interpersonal
Sociology > Social Work

This paper addresses the non-verbal communication skills important for social workers.

1,275 words () | 2 sources | APA | 2005 Canada

Paper Summary:

The paper explores how a social worker can be an effective communicator even with clients who do not speak a common language. The paper discusses the steps in developing effective body language skills, nonverbal communication skills, and the use of gestures. The paper emphasizes the importance of effective communication for social workers.

From the Paper:

"Social workers interact with many different people in the course of their day-to-day job, and often social workers will find themselves in situations where they are communicating with individuals from a different cultural background. A large part of an individual's cultural background is their language. It is quite likely that as a Social Worker one will be in situations in which they must attempt to effectively communicate with an individual who does not speak the same language. Cross-language communication can be very confusing and frustrating, but as a Social Worker it is important to remain calm and draw on all forms of communication in order to get or provide the information needed. This may involve the use of body language, pictures, or props. In the ideal situation, one would try to find an interpreter in order to facilitate the communication process, but often this is not a possibility in the social work field, as much of a social worker's job takes place on site and away from additional resources."

Sample of Sources Used:

Ekman, P. (1975). Universal smile: Face muscles talk every language. Psychology Today, 9(4), 35-39.
Young, M.E. (2005). Learning the Art of Helping: Building Blocks and Techniques, 3rd. Edition. New Jersey: Pearson.