9.3: Intercultural Conflict Defined

Figure 9.3.1: A peace symbol made up of words related to conflict and relationships.

Interpersonal conflict occurs when two or more interdependent parties perceive and experience a struggle over incompatible goals, scarce resources, and interference from others in achieving their goals (Hocker & Wilmot, 2018). However, when you add culture to the mix, conflict can take on an added level of complexity. For example, Joe and Roula are a happily married couple living in Southern California with their two young sons. Joe, who is French, and Roula, who is Lebanese, met while studying at the Sorbonne in France. After marrying, they relocated to the U.S. when Joe secured a prestigious position as an environmental engineer. Their sons, born in the U.S., speak fluent English and French. Roula, however, is frustrated that they do not speak Lebanese fluently. She is feeling homesick and would like to relocate the family to Lebanon until the boys are ready for high school. Roula believes Joe does not fully understand her emotional needs, as he is focused on the demands of his job.

Joe and Roula are experiencing what is known as intercultural conflict. According to Ting-Toomey and Chung (2012), intercultural conflict is “the implicit or explicit emotional struggle or frustration between persons of different cultures over perceived incompatible values, norms, face orientations, goals, scarce resources, processes, and/or outcomes in a communication situation”( p. 181). What distinguishes intercultural conflict from interpersonal conflict is the presence of significant cultural differences—such as values, beliefs, and communication styles—that shape how conflict is experienced and expressed.

Here is a breakdown of some of the key concepts in the definition:

• Incompatible Cultural Values and Norms: Joe and Roula’s differing cultural backgrounds influence their expectations around language, family proximity, and child-rearing. Roula’s desire to immerse her children in Lebanese culture reflects collectivist values and a strong connection to heritage. Joe’s focus on career stability and staying in the U.S. reflects more individualistic norms.
  

• Face Orientations: In intercultural conflict, “face” refers to a person’s sense of identity and dignity within their cultural context. Roula may feel that her cultural identity is being overlooked or minimized, while Joe may feel pressure to maintain professional success and provide for the family—both are trying to preserve face in different ways.
  

• Scarce Resources: Time, emotional support, and cultural exposure are all perceived as limited. Roula feels she is losing access to her cultural roots and familial support, while Joe may feel stretched thin by work obligations and the prospect of relocating.
  

• Processes and Outcomes: The way each partner approaches decision-making and expresses emotion may be shaped by their cultural upbringing. Roula may prefer indirect or emotionally expressive communication, while Joe may lean toward direct, pragmatic dialogue. These differing processes can lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
  

• Underestimated Cultural Differences: Often, intercultural conflict is intensified by subtle communication differences that go unnoticed. Joe and Roula may assume they are simply having a “relationship disagreement,” when, in fact, deeper cultural values are at play.

Now that you have a basic understanding of conflict, let’s dig a little deeper into the characteristics that separate interpersonal from intercultural conflict, including perception, conflict goals, outcomes, and cultural values.