Culture Shock

America/France - conclusion

I was very happy that when President Obama was elected, he acknowledged our image problem abroad. I've been very interested in researching cultural differences and our reputation as the "ugly Americans". So I figured I might as well start with France. 

The Seine

One stereotype we have in the US is that the French hate Americans. This is untrue but it does seem that the French have a sort of love/hate relationship with America. While they disagree with many of the things we do in the US they don't hate us. As a matter of fact the French follow our music, movies (Alice in Wonderland is a big hit now) and trends. We, on the other hand, know little or nothing about French movies or music.


The fact is that the French are fiercely protective of their language and traditional French culture. Which is why you might be surprised to find that so many French people do not speak English. French people also do not shout, where Americans can become quite loud. If you go into a restaurant in France and you can overhear loud conversation, dollars to donuts it will be an American. 

While the French can be hospitable, there is a certain expectation that outsiders should conform to the French social culture.   Many Americans when traveling abroad  behave with a air of entitlement and do not show respect for the culture of other countries. When American go to France they feel that the french should change the way they do things to suit us and many times Americans are vocal about their displeasure. The French would like us to behave the way that they do and honor their culture while we are in their country. 
 Another stereotype is that The French are rude.  This probably stems from the fact that they don't smile as often and as readily as Americans. It doesn't mean they are rude.  In French culture you are supposed to appear "serious" . They don't smile for no reason as we do. Exceptions to the serious face rule are when they are reacting to a funny joke, responding to a joyous occasion or FLIRTING! Don't be alarmed when you are walking down the street and no one smiles at you. Similarly if you go around smiling for no good reason you may be perceived as insincere, patronizing or worse yet, an idiot! 

Manners is where we really fall short by French standards. Before you visit another country it is probably a good idea to learn some of the more commonly accepted etiquette of the country, so as not to offend. When in France if you are not sure of something it is better to simply ask. There is etiquette to be followed in almost every daily interaction --from shopping in a boutique, to dining in a restaurant. When in doubt watch what the French do. The French are very gracious when someone is demonstrating a desire to learn about their culture (this includes tackling the French language). 

I think for the most part the French just think we are crazy. "Ils sont fous est Americains" - how crazy are those Americans - Said lovingly but...The French  can't figure out our politics and really have a hard time understanding how Americans could have re-elected George Bush for a 2nd term (altho I can't figure that one out myself and I'm not from France) Anyway, they think we do crazy things with our dogs. Like dressing them up (guilty) treating them like babies or human beings. They also believe that Americans will sue anybody for anything (uh, That's probably true).

To deal with cultural differences you may have to give up the expectation of receiving a smile. If you expect to find rudeness, you will. Instead focus on your own behavior when you are a visitor in another country.

Try not to judge. 

Things are neither right or wrong, they just are.

I'm Just Sayin