An initial analysis of the effects of face and concern for "other" in Chinese interpersonal communication

The present study investigated two of the most frequently used concepts in Chinese communication processes-face and "other" were analyzed. It was found that face and "other" played important roles in Chinese interpersonal communication. Specifically, the two dimensions of face, lian and mian, conveyed different messages in the everyday discourse of the Chinese. The notion of lian used in its negative form was related to a person's moral character and personal integrity. Mian, however, was used in compliance gaining, conflict mediation, and requesting. Results also revealed that the concept of "other" was important in self reproach, decision making, behavior regulation, and effectiveness of requests.(1) (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.