Factor Analysis of Polite Refusal Strategies in Multicultural Corporations

Abstract

This study explored politeness strategies in refusal situations among Westerners and Asians within 22 multicultural corpo+rations located in Thailand. A questionnaire to examine seven politeness strategies was developed from Brown and Levinson‘s (1987) five politeness strategies. Co-workers of six different status levels, divided by social distance and power relations (Close Equal Co-workers, Not Close Equal Co-workers, Close Junior Co-workers, Not Close Junior Co-workers, Close Senior Co-workers, and Not Close Senior Co-workers), participated in this study. Data collected from 200 questionnaires were analyzed using the following tools: factor analysis, One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), independent-Sample T-testing, and multiple regression. The triangulation of interview data was analyzed and divided into eleven categories. For types of politeness strategies, a factor analysis showed that indirectness was mainly used by all types of co-workers. Results of ANOVA showed that three significant differences in the politeness strategic use among all status levels were dinner invitations, offering a ride, and request for things. Dating invitation refusal situations were not statistically different due to the participants‘ accommodation of an opposite culture. A multiple regression revealed that among six variables (native language, social distance and relations, age, exposure to Thai culture, education, and work experience), social distance and relations was the most influential whereas native language and work experience were not powerful predictors. Although the independent-Sample T-test showed no significant difference between two cultures, the interview findings revealed the dissimilarities cross-culturally. Socio-cultural norms and communication accommodation theory clarified the self-adjustment to another culture, and the influence of norms and society could be the most significant feature of the different types of politeness strategies among the status of each co-worker in multicultural corporations.