A Study On The Intention Of Identity Construction In Cross - Cultural Communication

Language is the vehicle of identity construction. Then, could the use pragmatic rules of one’s native language be a means of self-identity construction in cross-culture communication?The current study aims to explore the intention of self-identity construction through the transfer of pragmatic rules by using utilizing the Theory of Planned Behavior. By comparing the overall intention to construct self-identity through purposeful selection of pragmatic rules with such an intention in specific speech invents like "self-introduction" and "Invitation", the dynamic changes of strategy use in cross-cultural communication is revealed. The research results are:(1) The general intention of constructing one’s self-identity through use of pragmatic rules of the native language is influenced most by subject norms, followed by attitude toward the behavior, intention to use of the transfer of pragmatic rules and last, the perceived behavioral control.(2) Factors influencing the same intention in the speech even of self-introduction follow the same order of importance as in the general intention.(3) In the speech event of invitation, however, attitude is the most influential factor, followed by subject norms, intention to use of the transfer of pragmatic rules, and the perceived behavioral control.(4) No significant correlations is found between the intention and personal attributes like age and English proficiency.