Stage 2: Defense
Defense is the second stage of the DMIS. During this stage, learners often feel as though their own culture is the only good culture (Bennet, 2011). This stage often consists of negative stereotyping and us to them thinking. A person is in defense may feel threatened by other cultures and their differences. People tend to be very critical of other cultures and have a narrow focus on what appropriate behaviors and cultures are correct (Cushner, McClelland, & Safford, 2012, p. 157).
Common phrases that learners might use at this stage are:
"I wish these people would just talk the way we do."
"When you go to other cultures, it makes you realize how much better the U.S. is."
"Boy, could we teach these people a lot of stuff."
"I wish I could give up my own cultural background and really be one of these people."
(Bennett, 1993, p. 3)
To move out of this stage, learners need to be able to manage anxiety about other cultures. Learners need to also embrace tolerance and patience for people in other cultures (Bennett, 1993, p. 3).
Common phrases that learners might use at this stage are:
"I wish these people would just talk the way we do."
"When you go to other cultures, it makes you realize how much better the U.S. is."
"Boy, could we teach these people a lot of stuff."
"I wish I could give up my own cultural background and really be one of these people."
(Bennett, 1993, p. 3)
To move out of this stage, learners need to be able to manage anxiety about other cultures. Learners need to also embrace tolerance and patience for people in other cultures (Bennett, 1993, p. 3).