6. Social Taboos
Society in the United States is a complex
. It is unique even among English-speaking countries. What
acceptable behavior or language in Australia, for example,
not be in the USA. Taboos are defined
socially unacceptable language, or behavior. There are simply
words and actions that society members cannot do
public. It is important to learn some of
taboos that exist in this country, especially for
who are new here. It will make the
from your country of origin to the United
a little bit easier. The following are a
examples of American taboos.
One of the most
taboos in the U.S. is the use of
. Profanity, sometimes called cuss words, or swear words,
not considered proper conversation in some parts of
country. In large cities such as Los Angeles
New York, profanity is more common, but in
of the rural part of the country, it
considered vulgar and the person using profanity is
of low quality. Another American taboo is speaking
the Christian God in a casual fashion. Religious
run strong in the South and Midwest regions.
the name of Jesus Christ or God will
be looked down upon in these areas.
Other
subjects in the U.S. are sex, death, personal
, and excretory functions. Excretory functions are body functions
involve waste materials. It is improper to speak
your personal bathroom visits, especially to the opposite
. Personal finances are just that personal, and should
be discussed in social settings. It is no
's business how much money you make, or inquiring
how much money someone else makes. The same
true about sexual content. Lastly, it is considered
poor taste to speak badly about a deceased
.
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