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Cross-cultural perspective

    One of my main interests is cross-cultural psychology. Being a member of IACCP (International Association of Cross-Cultural Psychology) and belonging to a nation widely dispersed in many countries (including numerous Moscow Diaspora) sharpens my point of view on uniqueness of national identity and cultural characteristics. Recent changes from concept of "melting pot" to struggle of preserving national ties and traditions in different Diasporas gave me the idea that peoples all over the world undergo changes in their ethnic identity. Interethnic encounters and interaction getting step by step more important and painful in terms of "Cultural shock" (Bochner). This should eventually result in more "to do's"  for cross-cultural psychologists - people who know how to deal with multifold nature of cross-cultural interactions. Not only refugees should be given such cross-cultural assistance, but business people and sojourners as well.

    For that purpose I decided to organize cross-cultural psychological consultation for foreigners in Moscow. During these consultations we deal not only with personal problems of individual but also with different aspects of cross-cultural experience. This kind of consultation will be useful for people who are interested in Russian culture, traditions and way of life, have some questions about how to prepare to business meetings or to informal relations with host nation.  

    In future I have an idea of creating "club of foreigners"- club, members of which come together to discuss different aspects of their personal cross-cultural experience.  This informal exchange of ideas could be very helpful not only for sojourners in Moscow, but for Moscovites who want to travel abroad. It resembles to cultural orientation courses for people who are going to study abroad differing in that it is less mentoring, so it is more promoting flow of ideas in participants. This kind of "intercultural club" will help to reduce interethnic tension in society, foster intercultural communication and dialogue.

    Though it is still in a stage of "idea" your feelings and commentaries are of utmost importance. Please contact me if you have any thoughts about that.