1. Time
"Americans also place considerable value on punctuality," (Gault). For certain occasions, one wants to be there before an event starts. Others, be there once it starts, and leave before it ends.
2. Privacy
"It’s something to be both respected and defended, and is considered fundamental to a free society," (Gault). It is generally found rude to visit others without notifying them of your visit beforehand. Furthermore, there are certain questions which are found to be unacceptable to ask, those discussing age, income, and weight.
3. Equality
"This belief is more likely to lead to informality in general behavior than to fluidity between socio-economic classes," (Gault). Yale warns international students that informalities in american culture are not signs of disrespect, but instead of friendliness. Also, they warn to get to know people initially formally, as being informal to a teacher can be a sign of disrespect.
4. Competition:
"Because of the emphasis on the individual, Americans can be competitive, and to be called a high achiever in the U.S. is quite a compliment," (Gault). Yale notes to students that the heirarchy of American culture is very different from others, as it is quite fluid because of the ability to move between classes.
5. Individualism:
" In American culture, in order to succeed and achieve your personal best, one must be strong and independent," (Gault). The author makes clear that Americans believe in being strong and independent, such as when students move out of their parents' home when going off to college.
Source:
Gault, Nathan, ed. "U.S. Culture & Values." Office of
International Studies. Yale University, 2012. Web. 9
Sep 2012.
Gault, Nathan, ed. "U.S. Culture & Values." Office of
International Studies. Yale University, 2012. Web. 9
Sep 2012.