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The family unit in America may be slightly different from the family unit, as you have come to know in your own country. America is a melting pot of cultures, races, nationalities and religion. It’s hard to place a personality on America as a country, since you will find vastly different attitudes and ideologies from Northern American states and Southern American states, not to mention 50 individual states. The only distinctive feature among all of these states is a capitalistic and consumer-based attitude when it comes to promoting business, finding entertainment and socializing with new people. If you have never been to America before and are coming from a smaller country, then you will be amazed at the material wealth you see in the country as well as the high-energy advertisements for fast food, movies and automobiles.
What about the family lifestyle in America? This may vary depending on your location. Some American territories are highly religious and predominantly Christian. However, there are many communities that seem apathetic to religion, especially any non-Christian faith. Tolerance of other religions and nationalities, not to mention immigration, are very controversial topics. The good news is that most Americans are polite to expatriates and foreign visitors, especially American merchants. However, joking about sensitive issues or overstaying your welcome and expecting more hospitality than you are given can lead to some tension.
Schools in America make it a point to promote tolerance and multicultural understanding. Some American schools have even gone out of their way to downplay American patriotism out of politeness for other religions and nationalities. So the myth of Americans being savage patriots who hate foreigners should not be feared. Americans are aware of the advantages that globalization brings and, for the most part, are open to change. As you may know, America recently elected its first black president, which shattered a lot of barriers.
Unlike many other civilizations across the world, American children seem to age rapidly and feel pressure to leave the family home almost upon turning legal age. While parents usually do not force young men or women out of the house, a young person living with parents or extended family can be viewed as unusual and a sign of immaturity. When it comes to working in America, there is a variety of companies that go about conquering their market in very different ways. Some of these companies are stringent about hard work and keeping schedules, whereas others are casual and relaxed.
The American family does not fit any narrow definition. The American lifestyle must be experienced to be fully understood!