Abstract

Nowadays, with the rapid development of the increasing economy and cultural exchanges, there is no doubt that giving gifts, as one of the important means of social activities, is becoming a common social phenomenon either in China or other countries. But to whom should people send gifts? What kinds of gifts are suitable for gifts? How to send gifts appropriately? The answers to these questions depend on the specific situations. These situations include the selection of gifts, gift-giving objects, the ways of giving gifts and the taboos of giving gifts. The problem of giving gifts is more complicated between Chinese and westerners due to the existence of cultural differences. The thesis compares Chinese and American different ways of giving gifts and discusses the cultural differences leading to gift-giving customs. Understanding the Sino-American cultural differences contributes to a better cross-cultural exchange and avoiding any unnecessary misunderstandings in the process of intercultural communication.

Keywords: giving gifts; etiquette; cultural differences

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. The Cultural Differences of Giving Gifts between Chinese and American Etiquettes-3

3.1 Differences in the Choices of Gifts-3

3.2 Differences in the Occasions to Give Gifts-3

3.3 Differences in the Objects of Giving Gifts-4

3.4 Differences in the Modes of Giving Gifts-4

3.5 Differences in the Taboos of Giving Gifts-5

4. Factors Contributing to Cultural Differences of Giving Gifts between Chinese and American Etiquettes-6

4.1 Collectivism vs. Individualism-6

4.2 Chinese Positive Face vs. American Negative Face-6

4.3 Humility vs. Confidence-7

4.4 High Context Culture vs. Low Context Culture-8

5. Suggestions for Giving Gifts in Better Ways in Intercultural Communications-8

6. Conclusion-9

Works cited-11