How is eye contact viewed in certain cultures of the Middle East and Asia?

• A. Inappropriate and rude.
• B. A sign of respect.
• C. Neutral and routine.
• D. Always encouraged.

Answer: (A)

Nonverbal cues like eye contact vary by culture, and in several Middle Eastern and Asian contexts direct, prolonged eye contact with someone older or in a position of authority can be interpreted as challenging or disrespectful. Because of those norms, eye contact is often viewed as inappropriate or rude in these settings. That’s why this option fits best. In other contexts, eye contact might signal attention or respect, or be seen as neutral, but those interpretations aren’t universal across these regions.