The source of information for this page is L. Robert Kohl's Survival Kit for Overseas Living, fourth edition,
©2001. Used with permission of Intercultural Press, A Nicholas Brealey Company. All rights
reserved. Other use of this material is prohibited.
Good Things To Know
Before taveling overseas, it is important to realize that there are preconceived stereotypes of Americans, and if
you do your best not to reinforce negative stereotypes, you will have a much more enjoyable trip. Here is
a list of good ideas to consider.
Most Common Stereotypes of Americans:
-optimistic
-outgoing, friendly
-informal
-loud, rude, boastful, immature
-naive
-hardworking
-aggressive
-judgmental, moralistic
-superficial
-extravagant, wasteful
-confident they have all the answers
-politically naive and/or uninformed
-ignorant of other countries
-disrespectful of authority
-wealthy
-materialistic
-generous
-impatient, always in a hurry
-outgoing, friendly
-informal
-loud, rude, boastful, immature
-naive
-hardworking
-aggressive
-judgmental, moralistic
-superficial
-extravagant, wasteful
-confident they have all the answers
-politically naive and/or uninformed
-ignorant of other countries
-disrespectful of authority
-wealthy
-materialistic
-generous
-impatient, always in a hurry
Perceived American Traits that Bother Host Nationals
-They are insensitive to local customs and cultural norms.
-They resist working through normal administrative channels.
-They often take credit for joint efforts.
-They think they have all the right answers.
-They are too abrupt and task-oriented; insensitive to the feelings of others.
Guidelines for Dealing with Stereotypes
1. Resist becoming angry or defensive
2. Avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes
3. Persist in being your (sweet old) self.
2. Avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes
3. Persist in being your (sweet old) self.
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