Download - TRAMP - Arbeit und Leben DGB/VHS

Working with Older Volunteers in Manual Intergenerational Projects
Meals
In an international context, shared meals offer many possibilities of observing differences
regarding time of day, extent and effort, but also in terms of certain components, e.g. a
glass of wine at lunchtime, which is essential in some regions, while only served on festive
occasions in others.
Hospitality
Hospitality is of great value in many cultures. Ample service and good accommodation
are seen as particularly important. In general, hospitable behaviour should occur on a
mutual basis. In this case it is appropriate to bring gifts or to invite guests to a return
visit.
Gifts
The exchange of gifts plays an important role in many cultures and reflects the quality
of social relationships. Small gifts are a part of private as well as business life. As guest
or host it is always helpful to have a gift at hand in order to be able to react to received
gifts.
Family and job
The role of the family and relatives differs greatly in various countries. The family bond,
often strengthened by joint celebrations, is frequently regarded as the major priority
compared to other commitments. This set of values is often unknown in those cultures,
which focus on work and career.
Work
In many countries family commitments, e.g. attendance at family celebrations, are more
important than job obligations. Cultivating social relationships has the highest priority
here, while loyalty towards the employer or third parties is regarded equally, if not more
important in other countries.
Collective or individual
While cultures in Northern or Central Europe are generally more characterised by individualism,
other countries focus more on the community. The desires of the individual
frequently comply with what is considered best for the whole family or group. The suspected
suppression, frequently expressed by outsiders, isn’t always justified, since self
interests are often voluntarily or even willingly set aside, because the principal of acting
for the well-being of the whole group is generally agreed upon.
Hierarchy
Social hierarchies differ drastically. Authorities or authoritative figures often differ from
the ones known in one’s own culture. In many countries respect for the elderly or for
professional superiors is significant. Respect is frequently demonstrated by dismissing
negative issues or by not directly addressing them, while this might not be regarded as a
problem elsewhere. Furthermore, it is sometimes unusual to show initiative in the presence
of a superior in order to remain polite. Instead, people await further instructions.
Set of Methods 167