 Cross-cultural communication challenges. Challenges. Challenges are things that are hard to do. When you move to a different country, it is a challenge to learn a new language. Learning a new language can be difficult. Misunderstanding. A misunderstanding is a situation when people do not understand each other. Misunderstandings can result in a conflict. Sensitivity. Sensitivity is being aware of and understanding of other people's feelings. When you show sensitivity to others, it means you are thoughtful about how they think and feel. Conflict. A problem or disagreement can result in a conflict. Strong disagreements sometimes cause angry behavior and arguments. Conflict prevents people from agreeing. Etiquette. Etiquette means behavior that is correct to cultural norms. In the U.S., it is polite etiquette to shake hands when you meet new people. Another word for etiquette is manners. Taboo. Taboo is the opposite of etiquette. It means behavior that is inappropriate to cultural norms. Smoking at school is taboo because it is against the law. Assumptions. Making an assumption means to think something is a certain way even if it isn't. A common assumption is that all Hispanics speak Spanish. Prejudice. Prejudice is an unfair judgment about a person or group of people. Prejudice can be based on race, gender, religion, or other social factors. Tip. A tip is a suggestion for how to do something. A good communication tip is to listen carefully. Listening carefully shows sensitivity and helps prevent misunderstanding. Suggestion. A suggestion is a tip or advice for how to do something. A good communication tip is to be patient with others. Being patient helps people feel that you understand them. Compromise. Compromising is a way to reach an agreement. In a compromise, both sides give something up they wanted. Compromising can help resolve conflict. Patience. Having patience with others shows sensitivity. Patience means having the ability to wait and be patient in a difficult situation or with a difficult person.