American culture, also known as that of the United States of America, primarily originates from and takes form from Western (European) culture. However, it is influenced by a multicultural landscape that includes African, Native American, Asian, Polynesian, and Latin American people and their cultures.
Many American cultural elements, especially from popular culture, have spread globally through modern mass media.
1. Individualism
Above all, Americans pride themselves on individualism and uniqueness. While they maintain close relationships with family and community, individual liberty and human rights are paramount to them. This might sound like selfishness, but it’s what drives Americans to be honest, respect other individuals, and ensure equal human rights.
2. Self-Reliance
Related to respect for the individual, emphasizing independence and self-reliance is a typical trait of Americans. From a young age, children are taught to stand on their own two feet – that is, to be independent. The majority of American students choose their classes and majors, partially or fully finance their education, find their jobs, and plan their marriages, rather than relying on their families.
3. Directness
For Americans, being honest and direct is more important than saving face. They may sometimes seem tactless when bringing up controversial issues, making you feel awkward or even offended. Americans always get straight to the point and don’t spend much time on formalities. Directness encourages Americans to discuss disagreements and resolve conflicts themselves instead of seeking third-party intervention. You shouldn’t mistake this directness for rudeness.
4. Casual Demeanor
Americans prefer to dress, entertain, and treat each other with a casual demeanor, even when there are differences in age or social status. Students call their teachers by their first names and vice versa. International students might perceive this as disrespectful or even rude, but it is part of American culture. Although Americans also value tradition in many ways, they generally don’t pay much attention to social etiquette.
5. Emphasis on Achievement
Americans highly value achievement. They like to show others their skills, for example, by displaying figures and images showcasing business achievements in the office or displaying awards from sports activities at home. Sometimes, books and movies are not judged based on quality but on the number of copies sold and the profits earned. In universities, people focus on accomplishments, grades, and students’ academic GPAs.
6. Competition and Cooperation
Americans value their achievements, so they often compete with each other. You can see both friendly and competitive rivalry everywhere. Even the joking style, along with Americans’ quick and witty responses, is a metaphorical form of competition. Americans also have a spirit of teamwork and cooperate with others to achieve goals.
7. Friendliness
In general, friendships among Americans tend to be shorter and more casual than friendships established in other cultures. This is largely influenced by Americans’ mobility and independence. Americans often have a clear way of categorizing friendships: friends from work, friends from the sports team, friends within family relationships, etc. Americans can be good and sincere friends, and it’s worth your effort to establish long-lasting friendships with American students.
8. Americans Like to Ask Many Questions
Americans tend to use many questions to break the initial awkwardness and to better understand people they have just met. Some questions may seem trivial, and others may feel personal to you. However, they don’t intend to be nosy, and you are not obligated to answer questions that make you uncomfortable.
9. Americans Value Time
Punctuality is highly valued in American society. Americans organize their lives according to a schedule. They are always on time for appointments. For international students, American students may seem to be in a constant rush, which can make them appear impolite. However, this sense of urgency is what allows Americans to be highly efficient in their work.
10. Dynamism
The United States is a dynamic land, constantly moving and changing. If you are accustomed to a slower pace, you might feel overwhelmed by this speed. Conversely, you might find it exciting. This constant evolution is fueled by innovation across various sectors, from technology and business to social trends and cultural expressions. This energetic environment often fosters a sense of opportunity and the potential for rapid progress, making it a place where new ideas and ways of life are continually emerging.