Let's take a look at the intercultural development continuum:
This continuum illustrates the development from monocultural mindset to intercultural mindset. Each category summarizes different frameworks for how individuals make sense of and recognize cultures and diversity. Leading Orientations indicate which dimensions are in front of your current orientation (i.e., if you identify at Minimalization than Acceptance and Adaptation would be your leading orientations.) Reversely, Trailing Orientations are in back of your current orientation (i.e., Polarization and Denial are trailing Minimalization.)
Here are some brief descriptions of each orientation:
Denial | Does not recognize (or avoids) deeper cultural difference |
Polarization | Views differences as "us" vs. "them" |
Minimalization | Recognizes humanity as common element, but may not see loss of cultural uniqueness |
Acceptance | Recognizes and appreciates cultural difference |
Adaptation | Can shift their perspective and change behavior authentically to fit in all cultures |
The IDI also captures an individual's Cultural Disengagement. This is separate from the continuum, but allows for us to reflect on how connected we feel to our own culture. Assessing personal cultural disengagement may provide clues or insight to how we can develop our intercultural mindset.