Final answer:
Cultural accommodation is the ability for expatriate managers and their families to function effectively in two cultures, integrating into the dominant society while maintaining their original cultural identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the expatriate manager and his or her family are able to function effectively in two cultures, this ability is known as cultural accommodation. This practice involves integrating into the dominant society without losing the identity of one's original culture. It is a form of adaptation that allows individuals to understand and navigate the complexities of both their home culture and the new culture they find themselves in.
Acculturation and assimilation are processes related to cultural accommodation but differ in terms of the degree of integration into the dominant culture. Acculturation involves adapting to the beliefs and practices of the host culture, often including code-switching between languages or cultural norms. Cultural accommodation, however, does not imply complete assimilation, thus maintaining some distinctive features of one's original culture.
Globalization of business and the interaction of multiple cultures in workplace settings underscore the importance of skills related to cultural accommodation. For example, the ability to navigate cultural differences and contribute positively in a multicultural environment is crucial for expatriate managers and their families. Overcoming culture shock and adapting to different cultural expectations play a significant role in achieving this cultural fluency.