Common US Cultural Nuances

Common US Cultural Nuances

Each culture has their own way of doing things and their own norms that may seem quite different from other cultures. Here are a few notable cultural nuances in the United States.

Cultural Nuance Examples in the US

  1. Imperial system
  2. Filling up your own gas
  3. Adding an apartment number to your address
  4. Timeliness- especially for appointments and professional settings
  5. Brunch- a combination of breakfast and lunch
See the image below for a few more items to be aware of to adjust to US culture. 

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Cultural Nuances our Nurses Have Noticed

  1. Individualistic culture in America is predominant
    1. Example: It’s more common for people to live on their own instead of with extended family
  2. Neighbors popping by isn’t as common in the US
  3. There may not be a local temple, and there are many types of churches 
  4. Material possessions are valued here- the US pushes consumerism and spending money
  5. Dress code expectations are more lax and informal (especially at some churches)
  6. The culture around gift-giving and money is different in the US. Americans are more conservative in their generosity and there is no informal monetary gift-giving in the US. Instead of money, Americans often gift flowers and sweets.
  7. Even with certifications and qualifications, job seekers (nurse spouses) may wait months to find a job
  8. Rent is often more than expected
  9. You will still get medical bills even if you have insurance
  10. You may get tax refunds in the US
  11. There is a big culture around DIY projects in the US- Furniture often requires assembly
  12. Not all of the US is wealthy- here are underprivileged areas
  13. Making friends as an adult in the US can be hard and it takes a lot of work- you have to be intentional about going places to socialize
  14. Clapping and dancing at church is less common in the US
  15. In most states in the US, you are required to pump your own gas
To understand more about US culture, read about body language in the US and common US phrases.



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