An aspect of American culture that is objectively a general characteristic of people from the United States is being outspoken and loud. This results from the constitutional right of having freedom of speech. Freedom of Speech is a right that has integrated into collective societal behaviors. This often includes protesting, publicly disagreeing with figures of authority, and discussing opinionated topics in public spaces, all resulting from people feeling comfortable in the ability to share their opinions whether or not they are deemed societally correct or incorrect. As a result of not feeling the need to hush and suppress views, Americans often have loud conversations, regardless of being potentially taboo topics, controversial, opinionated, or even public discussions. Americans have earned the stereotype of being “loud” because of these societal qualities. Though this may be appropriate in the United States, it is important to evaluate routine behaviors when preparing to travel abroad as societal norms differ globally.
Being a loud American is definitely something that I take part in. I am quite outspoken, outgoing, and passionate so often my conversations are loud and can be a bit cheeky. I feel comfortable presenting myself this way in the United States because I am a straight, white, woman who recognizes the privilege and encouragement to speak my mind. Though I face some suppression as a result of being a woman, I am aware that the acceptance of my behavior is unique to the United States. There is still a lot of suppression impacting many marginalized groups in America but compared to many other parts of the globe a hefty amount of freedom of speech is still a privilege. I am grateful to have had the ability to travel abroad frequently growing up. This made me recognize my behaviors as well as appreciate my ability to speak freely and publically. I often greet my friends in an outgoing way, constantly laughing, and discussing taboo topics such as sex and politics. Regardless of if it not considered a socially taboo topic, I recognize that the tone, language, and level of my conversations are not quite publicly appropriate or sensitive in other countries. I definitely tweak the way I present myself when I am abroad in order to adapt to societal expectations.
Someone outside of the United States may be offended by my noise level, outgoing body language, and the topics of some of my conversations. Waving and shouting at a friend across the street while dancing a little may not be appropriate. In some countries and cultures, this could be offensive or inappropriate. My behavior could be viewed as misbehaving or disrespecting, neither of which would be intentional, but just because it is unintentional does not mean that it is not inappropriate. Just as I may perceive someone in the United States as cold and unfriendly for being quiet and reserved, I could be perceived in a similar manner abroad.
This exercise has been helpful before embarking on my abroad trip and I am grateful that the opportunity has been presented to me. Though the quality of being a loud American is not something that I typically align myself or my values with, it was definitely important for me to self-reflect. It was a great reminder to analyze other habits of mine to prepare myself to be culturally appropriate and respectful while adjusting to my new life abroad. Not only have I made myself aware of some habits that I may need to tweak, I have spent the time to rethink how I will make those adjustments.