Individuals adjust their emotional expectations based on various factors such as cultural differences, past experiences, and personal beliefs. When joining a new unit with a unique interpersonal culture, people can struggle to adapt and adjust to unfamiliar social norms and behaviors. To effectively adjust emotional expectations, individuals need to consider several factors such as communication styles, shared values, and group dynamics.
Communication Styles
Interpersonal communication is essential for establishing connections and forming strong bonds within a unit. Individuals should be aware of the different communication styles used by members of the new unit and how they affect interactions.
If the majority of members prefer direct communication, someone from a more indirect background may experience confusion and misunderstanding, leading to negative emotions like frustration and anger.
Learning to communicate in a more direct manner can help create a better understanding between both parties. On the other hand, if the majority of members tend towards indirect communication, someone from a more direct background may feel that others are holding back information or being too vague, which can lead to feelings of disappointment and resentment. In this case, learning to read between the lines and interpret subtle cues can help bridge the gap.
Shared Values
Understanding the shared values of the unit helps individuals determine what is acceptable behavior and what is not.
Some units may have strict rules regarding privacy and confidentiality, while others may be open and share personal details freely. Failure to adhere to these values can result in misunderstandings and conflict. It's crucial for individuals to observe and understand the group's norms and align their actions accordingly. This will help them avoid any emotional discomfort caused by breaking unspoken rules.
Recognizing common ground through shared values can also strengthen relationships and build trust.
Group Dynamics
Group dynamics play a significant role in determining how individuals interact with each other. Factors such as leadership style, decision-making processes, and hierarchy structure can impact the unit's interpersonal culture. Understanding these factors allows individuals to adjust their expectations appropriately.
If the unit has a hierarchical structure, individuals who prefer a flat organization may struggle to adapt and may experience feelings of powerlessness or frustration.
By accepting and embracing the existing power dynamics, they can develop strategies to work within the system and establish themselves as valuable contributors. On the other hand, if the unit lacks a clear structure, individuals used to having firm guidelines may feel confused or overwhelmed without clear direction. They must learn to embrace ambiguity and take initiative to navigate this environment effectively.
Joining a new unit with a distinctly different interpersonal culture requires individuals to carefully consider various aspects such as communication styles, shared values, and group dynamics. By understanding and adjusting their emotional expectations, they can create meaningful connections and thrive in this new environment.
How do individuals adjust emotional expectations when joining a unit with a distinctly different interpersonal culture?
According to the research findings of Fiske et al. (2016), individuals tend to adjust their emotional expectations based on the social norms that are observed within a particular group. Therefore, when joining a unit with a distinctly different interpersonal culture, people may adopt the cultural values and behaviors that they observe among other members in order to adapt to the new environment.