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Learning
Cultural Differences
Between Americans and Vietnamese
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AMERICAN |
VIETNAMESE |
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Affection
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1. People of the
same sex holding hands is rarely found.
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It is quite acceptable. One can see two men or women in the street
holding hands
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2. A man and a
woman may hold hands or touch in public
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People rarely do this in public. It looks "ridiculous"
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3. A man can
touch a woman (put an arm around her shoulder, hold her arm, kiss her
cheek, etc...)
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A man does not do this for affection or friendliness. It is insulting to a woman.
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4. Kissing
(between husband and wife, lovers) in public is acceptable
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It is not acceptable. It
should be done in private quarters. No kissing in front of the children
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5. Parents and
children kiss each other
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Rarely, except small babies
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Celebrations
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1. Christmas and New Year holidays are the most important |
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Tet (Lunar New Year) is the most important. This date varies from year
to year, between January 15 and Feb. 20.
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2. Americans
celebrate birthdays. They give presents and throw birthday parties |
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Vietnamese
celebrate death days. They worship ancestors. They prepare a big meal and
invite members of the family and relatives to get together and talk about
the good aspects of the dead person. Birthdays are also celebrated, but
are less emphasized.
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