Arab American Culture
This module identifies Arab culture, social history and values, and compares this culture to U.S. Mainstream patterns of difference. It also identifies socialization and style differences that can create conflict in the workplace, and offers best practices for creating inclusion.
Purchase This Module
Contact UsSocial history and Values
Arab Americans represent a variety of countries and religious beliefs, however because many Arab Americans are Muslim, their culture is associated with the Muslim faith. In this section we examine religious beliefs, traditions, post-911 impact and patterns of shared values.
Communication Style
Arab cultural communication style is direct with the use of passionate tones to communicate importance and advocacy, especially when personal honor is involved. In contrast, U.S. mainstream individuals equate their less passionate communication style with being more rational and objective.
Attitudes toward Authority
One aspect of traditional Arab-American leadership style is to be more top-down, formal and role-driven than their U.S. mainstream counterparts, taking account personal loyalty and relationships.
Understanding Behavior
Personal loyalty is of utmost importance for Arab-Americans and surpasses loyalty to an institution, a policy or a position. Additionally, religion is of key importance. Work and personal issues are connected especially pertaining to religious requirements.