CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsHard
A nurse aide notices that a resident from a different cultural background avoids direct eye contact during conversations. The aide should understand that this behavior:
- AMeans the resident is angry with the staff
- BMay be a normal cultural sign of respect
- CIndicates the resident is being dishonest
- DSuggests the resident has a cognitive impairment
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. May be a normal cultural sign of respect
In many cultures, avoiding direct eye contact is a sign of respect, particularly toward authority figures or elders, rather than a sign of dishonesty, anger, or cognitive problems.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Anger is not the typical explanation for this behavior in many cultures.
- C. Assuming dishonesty is a Western-centric bias, not accurate across cultures.
- D. Cognitive impairment is not indicated simply by lack of eye contact.
Cultural Variations in Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal behaviors such as eye contact vary widely by culture and should not be misinterpreted using one's own cultural norms.
- Avoiding eye contact can signal respect in many cultures
- Personal space norms also vary by culture
- Avoid assuming negative intent behind cultural differences
Memory trick: Different culture, different cues—don't assume.