Intercultural Communication: A comparison of Iranian and American Nonverbal Behaviors

Abstract

Communication is an art we should master, especially in the professions that involve interpersonal relations, which are emotionally, diplomatically and historically charged (Gheorghita, 2012). Communication can be carried out either verbally or nonverbally. A lot have been written concerning verbal behaviors; however, as an intrinsic part of culture, nonverbal behavior has not yet received enough attention. Since intercultural relations are highly important and language learner should be aware of the second language culture he is learning, Iranian nonverbal behaviors are compared in this article with those of North Americans. Thus observing what is acceptable and what is taboo in the other language can help not only the second language learners and travelers of both countries but also any traveler coming to these two countries avoid an embarrassing time in social or public situations.