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Is Code Switching an Indicator of Adaptation?

Code switching is a practice of alternating between the cultural norms of a group in order to better adapt or navigate cultural difference. It is typically used by non-dominant cultural groups. Code-switching in itself is not an indicator of a particular orientation because the motivation behind why a person uses code-switching can vary.

 

For example, a person with a Developmental Orientation (DO) in Minimization may use code-switching, but may do so more as a survival strategy or because it is the only way they feel they can navigate effectively. In Adaption a person may code-switch, but will also have other strategies they can use when engaging across cultural differences, and likely are choosing to focus on commonalities intentionally (e.g., by using language that is familiar/comfortable to the other party).  

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