Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS)

The Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS) describes how people experience and respond to cultural differences instead of viewing them as obstacles. It outlines a progression from denial (ignoring differences), through defense and minimization (seeing differences as threats or insignificant), to acceptance, adaptation, and integration (valuing and adjusting to cultural diversity). The model helps understand how individuals become more open-minded and skilled at interacting across cultures, moving from ethnocentric (centered on one's own culture) to ethnorelative (appreciating other cultures) perspectives through education, experience, and reflection.