PRE-INTERVIEW RESEARCH
Larry Kellenberger
GLST 290
11/18/2024
At 22, Moustafa faced an extraordinary challenge when he bravely decided to leave his war-
torn homeland, a place plagued by violence and corruption. Now in his 60s, he is a remarkable
testament to resilience and character. Embarking on this journey required immense courage as he
sought safety and stability in a new land. Upon arriving in America, Moustafa immersed himself
in his new life, fueled by an unwavering ambition and a strong work ethic. His journey began
when he opened the 7-11 just down the road from my home, quickly turning it into a local
community hub and connection. I’ve known Moustafa for several years, and his inspiring story
resonates with everyone who crosses his path.
I interviewed Moustafa due to his exceptional values and steadfast kindness toward others. He
profoundly considers everyone, whether strangers, friends, or family. His remarkable inner
strength is evident in every interaction. He responded genuinely enthusiastically when I
approached him about exploring his culture and life through an interview. His willingness to help
anyone in need reflects the admirable character traits that I deeply respect. Moustafa embodies
the essence of Pakistani culture, exemplifying its positive values and principles.
Pakistan is primarily a Muslim country, with the majority of its population sharing
fundamental beliefs and values that resonate with Muslims around the world. This profound faith
significantly influences daily life, cultural practices, and social norms. However, the cultural
landscape of Pakistan is incredibly diverse, reflecting a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and
customs that coexist alongside the dominant Islamic belief system.
Islam is recognized as the official religion, with approximately 95 percent of the population
identifying as Muslim. Within this majority, there is a notable division between sects: roughly 75
percent of Muslims in Pakistan are Sunni. In comparison, around 20 percent of the population
are Shia, with a smaller percentage adhering to other sects and beliefs. This sectarian diversity
adds complexity to the social fabric, impacting everything from religious practices to community
relationships and celebrations.
In addition to these religious affiliations, the country is home to various ethnic groups, each
contributing its unique cultural heritage, languages, and traditions, further enhancing the overall
mosaic of Pakistani culture. Regional variations in festivals, culinary dishes, and traditional attire
highlight the country's multifaceted identity. Consequently, while the Islamic faith is a unifying
factor among Pakistanis, the rich diversity within the population fosters a vibrant cultural
mosaic.
In Pakistan, the government does not officially recognize certain religious minorities as part
of the Muslim community. These groups include Christians, Hindus, Parsis (Zoroastrians), and
Sikhs. Notably, the Ahmadiyya movement, which is considered a revivalist Islamic group, is also
excluded from official recognition.
In recent years, particularly since 2021, various terrorist organizations have capitalized on the
concept of jihad, reinterpreting it as a religious mandate. Groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and the
Taliban contend that jihad is a fard al-‘ayn, or an individual obligation, which they believe
should be actively pursued by individuals and non-state actors. The Taliban's resurgence in
Afghanistan in 2021 has further complicated the regional dynamics.
Pakistani culture is deeply anchored in strong family, community, and hospitality values, all
profoundly influenced by religious beliefs. Many Pakistanis are dedicated to helping others,
particularly those in need, viewing this commitment as an essential way to serve God. This
profound sense of responsibility is reflected in the widespread practice of charitable giving,
considered a fundamental religious obligation in Islam.
Many Pakistanis live daily lives firmly rooted in their devotion to prayer and the teachings of
the Quran. It is common for Muslims in Pakistan to pray five times a day and to observe fasting
during the month of Ramadan. Overall, the beliefs and practices of the Pakistani people display a
rich tapestry of religious, cultural, and historical influences, which can vary significantly among
individuals based on their unique backgrounds.
Pakistan is widely recognized as a nation characterized by an indirect and high-context
communication style. Within this cultural framework, individuals often converse politely and
nuancedly, favoring subtlety and implicit meanings over directness. Rather than articulating their
thoughts or intentions explicitly, people in Pakistan frequently rely on nonverbal cues, contextual
elements, and shared understanding to convey their messages. This tendency toward indirect
communication stems primarily from the deep-rooted value placed on interpersonal relationships
and social harmony. Direct communication can sometimes be perceived as confrontational or
disrespectful, making it essential for individuals to navigate their interactions with care.
Furthermore, Pakistani culture is deeply entrenched in hospitality, emphasizing the
importance of treating guests respectfully and kindly. This cultural expectation dictates that
communication often involves a degree of formality and courtesy, particularly when addressing
elders or authority figures. The reverence for hierarchy adds another layer to communication
styles, as individuals may choose their words carefully to maintain respect and avoid offending.
Such cultural values can pose challenges for outsiders, who may struggle to interpret the
subtleties of indirect communication. For example, a foreigner might overlook critical nonverbal
signals or fail to grasp the significance of the context, which can lead to misunderstandings.
Engaging in social interactions within Pakistani culture also necessitates understanding its
complex social hierarchies and relationships. The intricate web of interpersonal dynamics can be
daunting for those unfamiliar with local customs and norms. To build and maintain positive
relationships with individuals from Pakistan, it is beneficial for outsiders to adopt a respectful,
patient, and open-minded approach. By attuning themselves to the nuances of communication,
showing genuine interest in cultural practices, and demonstrating a willingness to learn, outsiders
can navigate these relationships more effectively and foster meaningful connections.
In Pakistani culture, familial relationships are deemed important, closely followed by societal
connections. While marriages are significant, they are often viewed as secondary to those within
the family unit. This emphasis on family is evident in various aspects of life, including the firm
reliance on extended family networks, the common practice of arranged marriages, and the
cultural significance attributed to filial piety and respect for elders. Furthermore, many ethnic
groups in Pakistan highly value family honor, with women often playing a crucial role in
upholding and preserving that honor.
Pakistan is characterized by a collectivist culture that prioritizes the well-being and needs of
the group—mainly family and community—over individual desires and ambitions. This cultural
feature highlights the significance of social connectedness and the interdependence of
individuals within communal settings.
The manifestations of collectivism are evident in various social practices that guide daily
interactions. Gift-giving, for example, transcends simple generosity; it is a pivotal mechanism for
strengthening social ties and enhancing social capital among friends, relatives, and
acquaintances. Such practices fortify relationships and cultivate a sense of belonging within the
group. Moreover, pursuing social harmony is paramount; individuals tend to eschew open
confrontation or dissent to preserve relationships. This preference for consensus is reflected in
group discussions, where indirect communication strategies are commonly employed to mitigate
the potential for conflict.
Collectivism profoundly influences significant life decisions, particularly those related to
education, career choices, and marriage. Individuals are often compelled to weigh their
aspirations against their families and broader communities' expectations and preferences. The
duty to family frequently precedes personal choice, exemplified in the widespread acceptance of
arranged marriages. Within this cultural framework, families are integral to relationship
facilitation, and discussions about marriage commonly involve extensive consultation among
family members.
Culturally ingrained preferences also extend to childbearing and family structures. The birth
of a son is frequently viewed as a considerable honor, imbued with substantial prestige within
Pakistani society's social context. This preference reflects deeper cultural values tied to lineage,
inheritance, and the perpetuation of the family name, fostering a sense of obligation among
individuals to meet these expectations.
In conclusion, Pakistani culture's collectivist nature profoundly influences interpersonal
interactions, major life decisions, and familial dynamics, creating a complex web of social
obligations and expectations that individuals navigate throughout their lives.
In Pakistani culture, conflict resolution primarily occurs through indirect communication
strategies. This cultural tendency emphasizes the importance of maintaining social harmony,
often resulting in a preference for avoiding confrontation or open disagreement. Individuals
navigate interpersonal conflicts by expressing their feelings and perspectives in a nuanced and
subtle manner.
The concept of "saving face" is crucial in this communication framework. It embodies the
practice of indirectness, which significantly influences conflict resolution methods. People
frequently employ avoidance strategies to prevent personal or communal embarrassment. As a
result, there is a tendency towards compromise and pursuing middle-ground solutions to ease
conflict and uphold relational harmony. The societal aversion to public shame further reinforces
a communication style that steers clear of directness, with overt confrontational behavior viewed
as impolite or disrespectful.
Nonverbal communication also plays a vital role in interactions within this cultural context.
Facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language convey nuanced meanings, often
supplementing spoken words. This reliance on indirect and subtle communication practices
highlights a deliberate and considerate approach to engagement.
Pakistani culture values familial, communal, and social networks in interpersonal
relationships. Preserving these relationships is regarded as essential for societal harmony and
individual well-being. A nuanced understanding of these cultural norms fosters more effective
communication, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and unintended offenses.
As an American, I recognize that my culture displays distinct differences and notable
similarities compared to worldwide cultures. One of the most prominent characteristics is the
approach to communication. In American culture, there is a strong preference for direct and
unambiguous communication. People tend to be straightforward in their interactions, favoring
clear and concise language to express their thoughts and feelings. This approach aims to
minimize misunderstandings and reflects a cultural belief that honesty and openness are
paramount in conversations. Additionally, the emphasis on individualism and personal
expression is a significant aspect of American communication. This focus encourages individuals
to share their unique perspectives and experiences, fostering a sense of authenticity and self-
identity in social interactions.
Regarding relationships, American culture similarly places a high value on independence and
personal freedom. This cultural trait underscores the importance of autonomy in both personal
and professional contexts. Many believe that maintaining one's independence is essential for
personal well-being, often resulting in more fluid and less hierarchical relationships than in other
cultures. For instance, in American society, it is common for young adults to view leaving their
family home upon turning 18 as a rite of passage. This transition marks a significant stage in
their lives as they seek to establish autonomy by attending college, pursuing careers, or exploring
other opportunities. Sometimes, this focus on individual desires and goals can precede familial
obligations or relationship commitments, highlighting a cultural tendency to prioritize personal
needs and aspirations.
Maintaining self-sufficiency is a salient attribute in both pre-marital and relational contexts.
Within the conflict resolution framework, American cultural norms prioritize competition and
individualism, often leading to a confrontational approach in emotionally charged situations.
This inclination is evidenced by a tendency among individuals in the United States to express
disagreements openly, driven by the desire to achieve personal goals and defend their
perspectives. Furthermore, the American cultural emphasis on innovation and problem-solving
fosters a proactive, solution-oriented mentality, motivating individuals to seek resolutions to
conflicts actively.
The dynamics of communication, relationship interactions, and conflict management in
American culture are profoundly shaped by diverse cultural influences, reflecting various values
and norms unique to multiple demographics. A comparative analysis between American and
Pakistani cultures highlights notable discrepancies in communication behaviors. Americans
typically utilize a direct communication style characterized by clarity and explicitness, while
individuals from Pakistani culture often adopt a more indirect method, relying on subtle hints
and nonverbal cues to express their thoughts. This approach underscores the importance placed
on context and nuance in their interactions.
This cultural divide is particularly pronounced within the context of interpersonal
relationships. Pakistani culture is entrenched in collectivism, emphasizing collective needs and
interests over individual desires. Conversely, American culture tends to prioritize personal
ambitions, frequently placing individual goals above those of the community. This fundamental
divergence permeates various facets of both cultures. For instance, while Americans usually
confront conflicts directly, Pakistanis may prefer to navigate disagreements through less
confrontational means. In this regard, American society values direct engagement, reflecting a
commitment to resolving issues through open dialogue.
Ultimately, individuals from Pakistani backgrounds may encounter challenges as they adapt
to the direct communication style and individualistic values prevalent in American culture. This
transition can be difficult, as traditional reliance on indirect communication may lead to
misunderstandings in contexts emphasizing clarity and assertiveness.
In numerous cultures, personal space tends to be more limited than what individuals from
Western backgrounds, particularly Americans, might expect. This reality highlights the need for
Americans to cultivate a genuine sense of cultural sensitivity when engaging in conversations or
interviews with individuals from Pakistani culture. Recognizing these cultural distinctions is
essential for avoiding misunderstandings and nurturing authentic, meaningful relationships.
As I prepare for this upcoming interview, I am acutely aware of the importance of
understanding these cultural nuances and resisting the temptation to make assumptions based on
my experiences. The profound differences between our cultures remind us of this awareness's
significance. Adopting an anthropological perspective will enable me to grasp the rich cultural
context of the person I will be interviewing, allowing me to appreciate the values and beliefs that
shape their worldview.
Additionally, participant observation will offer me valuable insights, letting me immerse
myself in their language, emotions, and behaviors. Key elements of communication—such as
body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and particular word choices—are crucial for
fostering effective interactions.
Establishing rapport with the interviewee is vital; it lays the foundation for creating a
comfortable and respectful environment where open dialogue can thrive. I must remain attentive
to potential power dynamics that may influence the interview, ensuring the interviewee feels
secure while sharing their experiences and perspectives. Communication often involves subtle
cues that can convey dominance—such as a patronizing tone or a condescending touch—or
submission, like avoiding eye contact. Being mindful of these dynamics facilitates a constructive
and respectful conversation.
Even words that appear neutral initially can acquire a negative connotation depending on the
tone, pitch, or body language. For example, a seemingly innocuous statement can be dismissive
or sarcastic if delivered in a flat or sharp tone. Similarly, our body positioning—such as crossing
our arms, avoiding eye contact, or maintaining a tense posture—can significantly impact our
message. Recognizing that these nonverbal cues are potent instruments that enhance or
undermine our communication, ultimately influencing how others perceive our words, is
essential.
References
Paris, Jenell, and Brian Howell. 2010. Introducing Cultural Anthropology.
https://mosaic.messiah.edu/edbooks/63/.
Haleem, Safia, and Culture Smart. 2013. Pakistan - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to
Customs & Culture. Bravo Limited.
Qadeer, Mohammad. 2006. Pakistan - Social and Cultural Transformations in a Muslim Nation.
Routledge.
Syed, Jawad, Edwina Pio, Tahir Kamran, and Abbas Zaidi. 2016. Faith-Based Violence and
Deobandi Militancy in Pakistan. Springer.
Amanat, Abbas, and Frank Griffel. 2007. Shari’a: Islamic Law in the Contemporary Context.
Stanford University Press.
