By on April 10th, 2017
Understanding the Culture of Chinese International Students
Hosting international students from China will teach you a lot about their country and culture. Before you do this, though, consider the following cultural differences that might otherwise get in the way.
Chinese People Have Fewer Inappropriate Topics
In America, we tend to say you should never bring up sex, politics or religion, at least not at the dinner table.
Other topics we tend to avoid would include age and income level. You’re simply not supposed to ask an adult about either.
This isn’t really the case in China. There are definitely limits to all of these topics, but Chinese international students come from a country where it’s considered very acceptable to talk about these things.
But They Are Also Less Direct
In America, you’re supposed to state your opinions and defend them when they’re challenged. This doesn’t mean you have to be rude, of course. It’s just the expectation in our culture.
Despite the fact that the Chinese will approach a wider range of topics, they’re also more indirect. They do this as a sign of respect, though.
Unfortunately, this means international students may simply nod when you express your opinions, even though they don’t actually agree. They’re just trying to avoid a confrontation.
Respect for Elders
If you have a teenager, this might be a nice change of pace. In China, respecting one’s elders is seen as every person’s moral duty. “Polite” to us is a priority to them. Don’t be surprised if your student treats you and other adults with a lot more deference than you’re used to. At first, this might mean that they have a hard time assimilating with your family as they see you as being on a bit of a pedestal.
With any luck, this trait and respect for elders will rub off on your own kids.
The Meaning of “Friends”
The Chinese have a very different – albeit wonderful – idea of what a “friend” is. Here in America, we tend to describe just about anyone we know as a friend. This can include anyone from coworkers to neighbors to the parents of our children’s friends.
In China, “friend” is almost a sacred title. It refers to a permanent relationship where one would always do whatever they could for the other.
Therefore, you may need to provide some clarification or they’ll be very confused when you ask if they made any friends after their first day of school.
The Chinese Value Education a Lot
In China, one’s work ethic is a real point of pride. Getting bad grades in China would be a real source of embarrassment.
This is important to understand when hosting Chinese international students. Even though they’re here to learn about the United States, they still want to do well at school. If they’re constantly hitting the books, know that this is probably their habit. They’re not trying to avoid you or having fun with the family.
Individualism Isn’t Really a Thing
We’re not saying that international students don’t understand they’re individuals, but the concept of individuality doesn’t nearly have the same reputation as it does here in the United States.
In this country, individuality is sewn into its fabric. When you win or succeed, it’s largely because you put in the time and worked hard at your goal.
International students from China come from a culture where the credit would be shared with their country, community, team, family, etc.
This may throw you at first when you try complimenting them for their grades, athletic performance, etc. It’s not bad to do so, just know that they aren’t used to the idea of individualism like we are.