Because Americans are taught to be self-reliant and live in a mobile society, many tend to avoid deep involvement with other people. Further, Americans tend to «compartmentalize» their friendships, having their «friends at work,» «friends at school,» a «tennis friend,» and so on. Americans often seem very friendly even when you first meet them.
If an American invites you for a meal or snack in a restaurant, s/he might expect you to pay for your food. Do not assume that s/he will pay for you just because s/he invited you.
Most Americans see themselves as separate individuals, not as representatives of a family, community or other group. They dislike being dependent on other people, or having others depend on them.
They treat each other in very informal ways, even in the presence of great differences in age or social standing. From the point of view of some people from other cultures, this kind of behavior reflects lack of respect. From the point of view of others, it reflects a healthy lack of concern for social ritual.
The United States is a culture that tends to view change as good, as an improvement.
