The United States is a diverse country with a population that reflects a range of ethnic, racial, and religious backgrounds. Different regions of the country (and sometimes different neighborhoods in the same city) have distinct cultures as well (see Figure 5.1). You have a unique cultural background and communication style that differ in some ways from those of others. So, to function as a member of such a diverse society, you need to be able to communicate appropriately and effectively with a wide variety of individuals. Two key parts of this process include understanding your own cultural expectations for communication and respecting those of others.