Communication Modes, Kenyan

Document Type

Book Chapter

ISBN

9781118783665

Editor

Kim Young Yun

Publication (Name of Journal)

The International Encyclopedia of Intercultural Communication

Department

Graduate School of Media and Communications

Publisher

Wiley

City

New York

Abstract

This entry provides an introduction to Kenyan modes of communication. Collectivism is the key value that determines how Kenyans choose to communicate. Within the broader collectivist approach, relative status of the individuals involved and the purpose of communication in a given situation also affect the appropriate mode of communication. Indirectness, third party communication, judiciously withholding information, and use of metaphors, proverbs, and stories are characteristic of Kenyan interaction with persons of different status in society, or when conveying sensitive news. Directness is typical of close, horizontal personal relationships.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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