Running head: Respect

A Tradition of Respect Jennifer Glen Abby Schumacher Marissa Barten Eve Ami University of Colorado Denver

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I. Introduction The United States; a melting pot of cultures, demographics, and uniqueness provides multiple opportunities to study the behaviors of specific groups. From gender, to age, to sexuality, culture is spread throughout the US and adapts to current norms or dominant beliefs. Upon the decision of choosing one specific group, we took personal interaction as well as accessibility into consideration. This project focuses on the communication of respect shared within the culture of different Filipino families. Upon the opportunity to begin this project, our group members determined the significant number of possible interviewees we would have access to. We assessed the verbal and non-verbal nature of each family focusing on different generations in a close, comfortable environment. The nature of these interviews is a large reason why the Filipino culture was chosen. With the accessibility to this cultural group, we were able to obtain a full understanding of the family dynamic while contrasting it to the lives of the typical American family. Intercultural communication focuses on how cultural groups differ from one another (Martin and Nakayama, 2010). Because culture can be defined in many different ways, we chose to make sense of it through the definition Martin and Nakayama provide: Culture= shared language, beliefs, values (Martin and Nakayama, 2010). The Filipino family dynamic bases the respects for their family members and elders from a long tradition of shared beliefs and values. Not only are the Filipinos a culture because they share ethnicity, but also share in the history of the Philippians being colonized by America, where many now inhabit. The Filipino culture survives through the traditions of 2

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respect and the backbone of discipline, while living in modern day America. We focused on this maintained family dynamic as well as the changes occurring while living in a largely diverse area. The Filipino family dynamic we focused on differs immensely from that of an American family dynamic. Because the two are so different, our group wanted to capture those differences and compare/contrast them to one another. Further, we wanted to determine how the survival of the culture has changed, grown, and faded when moving to America, and why. Many of the interviews we conducted interpreted the culture and traditions of the Filipino families while determining if the American lifestyle has had a positive or negative effect on them. This area of research was chosen because of the large contrast existing between the two cultures, and the approach taken granted great insight into each.

II. Definition of Concepts For this type of research into the lives of Filipino families, we used the interpretive approach. The book describes this lens to be a tool in the hopes of understanding the differences in a certain culture; some assumptions of this approach are as follows: (1) the human experience is subjective, (2) human behavior is creative rather then determined or easily predicted, and (3) culture is created and maintained through communication (Martin & Nakayama, 2010). Through the use of this approach, we were able to gain knowledge and understanding through personal contact with the families we chose to interview. Further, we used an emic approach in conducting our research and interviews. Our text refers to 3

Respect the term emic as a way to distinguish between the social science lens and the interpretive lens. In contrast to the term etic that a social science lens would follow,

emic differs and falls in line with the interpretive approach, as the emic way of inquiry focuses on understanding communication patterns from inside a particular cultural community or context (Martin & Nakayama, 2010). Due to the close nature of our relationships with the families that were interviewed, the term emic provides the perfect definition as to how we gained most of our research. When understanding the culture and lifestyle of the Filipino families, it provided a much greater chance at establishing and understanding the differences between each culture. In using the interpretive approach, we faced strengths and limitations when conducting our research. For example, Martin and Nakayama (2010) stated that a possible limitation is that many scholars have not studied what happens when two groups come into contact with each other. Although this standard limitation may be true in some research, we made it one of our strengths by confronting how the respect level between family members has changed since the colonization or immigration into America. By making this one of our strengths, we were able to understand how the culture came to be, why it has changed, and what the change has affected within the family structure. Another aspect we used to our advantage was the preexisting relationships our group has with each family interviewed. This provided a much more comfortable environment and allowed the families to be more open in areas such as discipline and expectations. By listening intently, we had the privilege of gathering priceless information shared from each of our interviewees.

Respect Communication between the interviewee and the interviewer was always in suit with respect and open-mindedness. To avoid any confusion or confrontation, we made our questions clear, concise, and non-judgmental, as we were simply trying to

understand. Although relationships have already been established between our group and the families we have chosen to interview, we still used a professional approach and monitored verbal and non-verbal communication as we learned more about the family dynamic. Because we have a genuine interest in the Filipino family culture of respect, the interpretive lens allowed us to gain a grasp on how each family member maintains a certain role, and how that role is upheld. We gained knowledge of how the role of communication plays its part between each family member, including where respect and discipline are most necessary. The interpretive lens allows the researcher to participate and interact with the culture of interest, while paving the way for deeper relationships. Although our group had preexisting relationships with the individuals interviewed, this approach deepened each one and created a more trusting, comfortable environment for our research.

III. Research Question Literature Review The specific communication we studied in the Filipino culture is that of respect. Our research questions were: 1. How is respect communicated between family members in the Filipino culture?

2. Has it changed since immigrating to the United States? If so, in what ways?

Respect What we have heard and seen firsthand of the Filipino culture is that there is a deep respect for family especially family elders. Most of what we observe, however, is not communicated verbally, so we set out to find out the exact ways in which respect is

communicated. Is it communicated through putting others first in daily decision making? Is it communicated by certain actions? Certain words? These are some of the questions we asked in order to find an explanation for the love and respect we see in nearly the whole of Filipino culture. In our research on the topic, we did not come across much literature directly relating to Filipinos and respect. We did find several articles discussing other things relating to the culture, such as immigration (Richter, 1981), contributions to American society (Winter, 1988), and the impact of culture on the college experience of Filipino-American students (Museus & Maramba, 2011). None of these sources helped us directly with the study of respect in the Filipino culture, but they allude to respect in many ways. For example, Marsha E. Shapiro states the following in the Asian Culture Brief: Filipinos self-concept and identities are strongly tied to their families. From birth to death, they see themselves in the context of their families. For many, everything they do or fail to do will ultimately affect their familys reputation. This is because from childhood they have been admonished to accomplish and be the pride of the family. They are told that to do otherwise would shame the family (Shapiro, 2002, p. 2). While factoring these other references into our own research, our questions reflected the already established ideas of Filipino culture while putting a further emphasis on

Respect family communication and respect. This and other helpful insights assisted us in our study of Filipino culture and the communication of respect within that culture.

IV. Methods The population we studied was, as mentioned, Filipinos, with a focus on the communication and respect within families of that culture. This includes first and second generations Filipino immigrants migrating to the United States from the Philippines. We studied this population by organizing questions with the intent to better understand the importance of respect in Filipino culture. Apart from interviewing members of this culture, we researched literature pertaining to Filipino history. We collected data by interviewing members of Filipino families of differing ages. We filmed the interviews to ensure the capture of verbal and non-verbal communication shown by those interviewed. After all the data was collected, we compiled a video to assist in the demonstration of what we learned and to showcase the respect found even in the voices and verbal communication styles of those interviewed. We developed our interview questions based on our focus of communicated respect within the Filipino culture: 1. Who was the prime disciplinarian in your family, matriarchal or patriarchal? Did this change at all when you immigrated to the United States? 2. (If the interviewee has children) How would you say you discipline your children? Is this similar to how you were raised in the Philippines? 3. What does respect mean to you in regard to your family?

Respect 4. 5. 6. Is respect verbally or nonverbally communicated in your family? (Examples?) When you were growing up, how were you taught to treat your elders? Can you tell me about a time when you were disrespectful to an elder? What happened as a result? 7. Was there a difference in how you were to treat your grandparents as opposed to your siblings or any other family member? 8. Were there expectations communicated to you as to how you were supposed to live your life? If so, have you stayed on that path?

The responses to these eight questions helped us to gain a deeper understanding of the Filipino culture. The information we were able to gather helped us determine how this culture came to be, how it is maintained, and how it has changed over time. It also provided us with comparisons to the American family dynamic; highlighting what makes them different from families in the United States. As we came to understand and appreciate each culture, the differences have come with some eye-opening discoveries, especially in regard to communication.

V. Theoretical Application In researching Filipino culture and dynamics, Mary Jane Colliers Cultural Identity Theory was used, utilizing the interpretive approach. Collier has said that using cultural identity as an approach can help us better analyze others conduct and decide how to do what is mutually competent (Collier, 1998, p. 43). This theory fit together very well with an interpretive approach. In Colliers theory, culture is defined as a historically transmitted system of symbols, meanings, and norms. It is also systemic, and 8

Respect the components of that system include patterned symbols such as verbal messages and nonverbal cues (Collier, 1998). Norms (normative conduct) and history also come into play, as patterns of appropriate ways of communicating are historically transmitted and taught to new members of the group (in this case, Filipino children). Cultural identity is developed when these things are passed down to new members (Collier, 1998). Cultural identity is defined by Collier as the particular character of the group communication system that emerges in a particular situation. Properties of this identity include the processes of avowal (the self an individual portrays) and ascription (the identities attributed to an individual by others). These processes are the means by which identities are enacted in interpersonal contexts (Collier, 1998). Modes of expression according to this theory include core symbols, which tell us about the definitions,

premises, and propositions regarding the universe and the place of humans in the universe that are held by members of the cultural group (Collier, 1998, p. 41). One final aspect of the Cultural Identity Theory which was directly applicable to the interview responses we obtained was that cultural groups create and reinforce standards for performing the culture appropriately and effectively; norms for conduct are based upon core symbols and how they are interpreted (Collier, 1998, p. 41). Especially in the case of Joseph and Magnolia, the interpretation of what was expected of them in regard to marriage shifted after coming into contact with another cultures norms. Cultures are affected not only by changing socioeconomic and environmental conditions, but by other cultures as well (Collier, 1998, p. 39). These aspects of Colliers theory influenced the development of our second research question, has it

Respect (communicated respect) changed since immigrating to the United States? If so, in what ways? To properly study the culture using this approach, qualitative research was gathered. This research investigated the why and how of decision-making (related to

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respect) in the Filipino culture. Questions such as how is respect communicated between family members in the Filipino culture? and why is this respect such an integral aspect of the culture? were asked. This qualitative research helped us to gather an in-depth understanding of respectful behavior and the reasons that govern such behavior. This was accomplished through interviewing candidates from the Filipino culture and through research of respected journals and other sources. The interpretive approach was applied in order to understand this culture and their norms in comparison to those in America. We found that one of the best ways to understand a culture from the outside looking in is through this interpretive, respectful approach; simply intending to learn and understand. When approached with respect, those we chose to interview responded in kind, offering more information to us than we believe they would have otherwise. The Cultural Identity Theory assisted in interpreting precisely what was represented by the Filipino system of symbols, meanings, and norms. The various titles and gestures that are associated with communicating with elders is a very important aspect of this society; these things contribute to Filipino identity in no small way. Additionally, the way they cherish their elders illustrates the hierarchy within their community, which is interestingly full of respect, honestly, and integrity, which is in contrast with nearly any hierarchy found in America. Behaviors such as these are 10

Respect organized based on their heritage and their shared history, and, as a result, become a strong part of their cultural identities.

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VI. Results The results of our interviews indicated that respect is communicated clearly within the Filipino culture in various ways, as was expected; however, the elders of the family are not the exclusive focus of that respect. Instead, the structure of the traditional Filipino family is such that several members receive additional responsibility, and therefore additional respect. One aspect of this culture that we found especially refreshing is the lack of tension or struggle over power; there is simply respectful and loving acceptance between all members in the hierarchy of the family in this culture. There is a quiet happiness present in every member we came into contact with. Our first research question was how is respect communicated between family members in the Filipino culture? We found that respect is communicated both verbally and nonverbally within the Filipino family structure. Children are raised with the understanding that there is a hierarchy not only having to do with parents and grandparents, but also within the group of siblings. There are specific names given to grandparents (Lolo and Lola, not dissimilar to Grandma and Grandpa in western culture) as well as to the oldest sibling in the family (Kuya for older brother and Ate for older sister). It is communicated from birth (to the firstborn child and all subsequent children) that the position of the oldest child holds a great deal of responsibility and is a position of authority, under the parents.

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Ways in which respect is communicated non-verbally include the touching of an elders hand to ones forehead in greeting; this is a highly common practice within the family as well as throughout Filipino culture and community. Other ways of showing respect non-verbally include standing when an elder enters a room, pulling out a chair for an older family member at mealtimes, and listening with respect when a grandfather or grandmother is speaking. Our second research question was has it (communicated respect) changed since immigrating to the United States? If so, in what ways? The answers we received were interesting. For Joseph and Magnolia, both older siblings, the changes were drastic. They explained that in Filipino culture, it is expected that the oldest sibling remain single until younger siblings are secure in their lives; meaning anything from helping siblings financially with schooling, to waiting until each younger sibling is married before pursuing any romantic relationship themselves. It is not surprising, then, to find out that many older siblings stay single well into their fifties. After moving to the United States, both Joseph and Magnolia were introduced to a different way of thinking, and they allowed it to change the perspective they were raised with. They explained that the tradition of remaining single until siblings were grown and secure was simply a different one, neither good nor bad, just different; and that after seeing the western way of doing things, they desired a more balanced approach. They decided to get married at a very young age (28 for Joseph, 21 for Magnolia) and have since found that they are better able to help their families now than they would have been able to, had they remained single.

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Our third interviewee, Jollin, spoke of moving from the Philippines to California when she was a child, and how shocked she was at the lack of respect her peers in school showed to positions of authority. Instead of letting this negative experience impact her attitude or behavior, Jollin instead took the advice her mother gave her, to retain the good of the Filipino culture and take whatever good she could find of the new western culture, moving forward with a balanced perspective. One final result we took away from these interviews was the Filipino perspective on communication as a whole. Joseph told us that it is very important to try to listen before speaking; that his mother always told him in order to be a successful communicator, you must first seek to understand before seeking to be understood. Its clear that this approach to communication develops a strong respect for others; our society would benefit from taking on some aspects of the Filipino culture in this area.

VII. Conclusion After careful research, planning, execution, and reflection, we found that in doing this project, our goals were achieved. We discovered that respect within the Filipino family is one that strengthens and deepens relationship ties. From sibling expectations to respecting elders, the families were able to adapt their life roles as they came to America. In doing so, they demonstrated true success in assimilation without identity loss. When introduced to the western lifestyle, our interviewees understood it was different from their own, adapting by integrating the good and discarding the bad. We believe that the dynamic of the Filipino family improves our society by giving us an example of adapting with respect, while still maintaining your own cultural 13

Respect identity. Additionally, we were struck by an unexpected view on communication as a

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whole; Josephs comment on his mothers instruction to seek first to understand before being understood is one that we feel would greatly benefit western society. If our society took on this trait of respect in simple, every day interaction with one another, we may well improve our outlook on what is truly important in life. Material obsessions and the individualistic, often selfish, national identity might just shift to develop a more balanced focus, as well as a renewed desire for strong relationships with fellow humans. We feel that the United States would only benefit from a lesson of respect and communication from the Filipino culture.

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Respect References Collier, M. J. (1998) Cultural Identity and Intercultural Communication. L. Samovar & R. Porter (Eds.) Intercultural Communication (8th ed.). Boston: Wadsworth.

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Martin, Judith N., and Thomas K. Nakayama. Intercultural communication in contexts. 3rd ed. Boston: McGraw-Hill, 2004. Print Museus, S. D., Maramba, D. C. (2011). The Impact of Culture on Filipino American Students sense of Belonging. The Review of Higher Education, 34 (2). Richter, L. (1981). Filipinos in America: Target constituency for the "new society". Shapiro, M.E. (2002). Asian Culture Brief: Philippines. NTAC-AAPI Culture Belief Series, 2 (3) 1-3.

Winter, F. H. (1988). The Filipinos in America. In America series. Lerner Publications Company.

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