Com 263 Assignment # 2 - Essay Example

The dinner table is considered a formal type of gathering and is considered an important event. This reflects the Hispanic culture that places a high value on family. Because mealtime is considered to be an important and formal event, formal communication skills are stressed. The children, aged 6 and 9, are instructed to speak clearly and in complete sentences. Children are also taught that there is an appropriate time to speak and an appropriate time to listen. Slang is not encouraged and though the family speaks Spanish, they use English at the table.

This is a non-verbal message that reflects the value they place on America. Other non-verbal messages, such as hand gestures and facial expressions, are not allowed in the formal setting. These non-verbal messages are prized by the culture in informal communication, but children are discouraged from using them with elders or in formal settings. One of the basic cultural norms for the Hispanic family is that children must listen to their parents. This conveys a high degree of respect for age and authority.

The children are also taught to listen attentively to anyone that is speaking and attempt to understand what is being said. Though the children are bilingual, English is their first language. In less formal settings the children are taught Spanish and encouraged to speak and understand both languages. They are also taught to ask questions about any conversation they dont understand. They are instructed to react in a proper manner and not engage in sibling rivalry or mocking at the dinner table.

One of the basic understandings of this cultural setting is that the father is the head of the table and will control the meal as well as the communication. The father in the Hispanic culture is the undisputed head of the household in all affairs. You should engage in conversation only with his consent. This consent may be in