Biggest Differences Between Thai Culture and Western Cultures

Thai culture and western cultures are both incredibly diverse and complex, but there are some fundamental differences between the two. The most noticeable difference is in their approach to religion, with Thai culture being predominantly Buddhist, while Western countries have more secular societies. Another key distinction is in the social structure of each society; Thailand has a hierarchical system based on respect for elders and authority figures, while Western countries tend to have more egalitarian relationships.

When it comes to food, Thai cuisine is characterized by its use of spices like lemongrass, chili peppers, turmeric and garlic; these flavors often contrast with those found in Western dishes which typically feature creamier sauces or seasonings such as rosemary or thyme. Many traditional Thai meals involve communal eating – usually from shared plates – rather than individual servings which are common in the West.

Fashion styles differ greatly between the two regions; Thais often dress modestly yet brightly colored garments whereas people living in Western countries tend to favor neutral colors such as black or white. Similarly lifestyle choices also vary considerably between East and West: activities like yoga and meditation are popular among Thais whereas extreme sports or outdoor pursuits may be favored by those living in western nations.

Overall there are numerous differences between Thai culture and western cultures that make them unique from one another; whether it’s religious beliefs or clothing preferences there’s no denying that both offer a distinct set of cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Religion: Buddhism is the main religion in Thailand, while Christianity is the predominant faith in many Western countries

Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, with the majority of its population adhering to this religion. Buddhism has been the main religion in Thailand for centuries and it plays an important role in Thai culture. The Theravada form of Buddhism, which is practiced in most parts of the country, emphasizes meditation and devotion as a path towards enlightenment. In comparison, many western countries are predominantly Christian, where Christianity is the predominant faith. While both religions have similar concepts such as belief in one God, prayer, charity, and ethical values, there are some key differences between them.

One of the major distinctions between Buddhism and Christianity is their view on salvation. Buddhists believe that salvation comes through personal effort rather than divine intervention. This means that individuals must take responsibility for their own spiritual development and strive to reach enlightenment. On the other hand, Christians believe that salvation can only be achieved through acceptance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and grace.

Another difference between these two religions is their views on suffering. For Buddhists, suffering is seen as part of life and something that should be embraced. They also believe that suffering can lead to wisdom and understanding if faced head-on. Conversely, Christianity teaches that suffering is the result of sin and should be avoided or overcome.

While Buddhism does not have a concept of Heaven and Hell like Christianity does, it does emphasize reincarnation. This is the idea that when someone dies, their soul will be reborn into a new body depending on how they lived their life. Consequently, Buddhists focus more on living a good life here on Earth rather than trying to gain entry into an afterlife.

While there are many similarities between Buddhism and Christianity, there are also notable differences that set them apart. Understanding these distinct beliefs can help foster greater respect and understanding among people of different religious backgrounds.

Language: Thai language is spoken in Thailand while English is the dominant language in most Western countries

Language is one of the biggest differences between Thai culture and western cultures. In Thailand, the official language spoken is Thai, which belongs to the Tai-Kadai language family. It is a tonal language with five tones and has borrowed vocabulary from Sanskrit, Pali, Khmer, Mon, Lao, Chinese, and English. On the other hand, English is the dominant language in most western countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. Other languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, and Portuguese are also widely spoken in some areas.

Thai and English have many similarities but also quite a few differences. For example, Thai does not use conjunctions or tenses like English does; instead it uses particles that indicate the direction of the sentence. Another difference is that Thai does not distinguish singular and plural nouns whereas English does. In Thai, verb forms can change depending on politeness level while English verbs remain the same regardless of politeness.

These differences can cause difficulties for non-native speakers who wish to learn either language. As both Thai and English have their own unique grammar and syntax, it takes time and effort to master them. There are numerous cultural implications when speaking these languages that should be taken into consideration. For instance, different levels of politeness may be expressed in Thai by using specific words and phrases that would sound overly formal in English. Moreover, learning how to read and write Thai is an even bigger challenge due to its complex writing system.

Social Customs: Greetings in Thailand involve a bow with hands together in prayer-like fashion, while in the West handshakes and hugs are more common

When discussing social customs, one of the biggest differences between Thai culture and Western cultures is in greetings. In Thailand, it is customary to bow with hands together in a prayer-like fashion when greeting another person, while in the West handshakes and hugs are more common forms of greeting. This difference can be attributed to the influence of Buddhism on Thai society; bowing is seen as a sign of respect for elders and those in positions of authority, while handshaking and hugging may not be appropriate in certain contexts.

The concept of personal space is also very different between Thai and Western cultures. While people in the West often prefer to maintain an arm’s length distance from each other during conversations, Thais may stand much closer and make physical contact such as touching arms or shoulders. This is because Thai people tend to place greater emphasis on interpersonal relationships than their Western counterparts. Public displays of affection such as kissing and holding hands are considered inappropriate in most contexts in Thailand, whereas they are commonplace in the West.

Thai people also have a unique set of cultural taboos which are not necessarily shared by other societies. For example, pointing at someone with the index finger is considered rude, as is touching someone’s head or stepping over them. These taboos reflect the deeply held belief that the head is the most sacred part of the body, and should therefore never be touched or stepped over. Feet are viewed as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, so it is important to avoid placing your feet in a position above someone else’s head.

Education System: In Thailand, education focuses on memorization of facts and figures rather than critical thinking, while in the West, emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills

When it comes to the education system, Thailand and western countries have vastly different approaches. In Thailand, students are taught to memorize facts and figures in order to pass exams, with a focus on rote learning rather than critical thinking or analytical skills. This method of teaching has been criticized for failing to produce well-rounded, innovative thinkers who can apply their knowledge to real-world problems.

In contrast, many western countries place more emphasis on developing analytical skills and critical thinking. Students learn how to analyze complex concepts and ideas, as well as how to evaluate and interpret data. The goal is to produce graduates who can think independently and come up with creative solutions to everyday challenges.

These differences in approach to education stem from cultural values. In Thailand, traditional beliefs emphasize respect for authority, while western culture encourages individual expression and autonomy. As such, Thai teachers tend to be highly authoritarian and strict, while Western educators strive to create an environment where students feel empowered to express themselves. There are significant disparities between the curricula offered in each country; for example, religious studies and ethics are core components of Thai schooling, but these topics are largely absent from the curriculum of most western countries.

Food Habits: Rice is the staple food in Thailand, while breads and pastas are popular in the West

One of the biggest differences between Thai culture and Western cultures lies in their respective food habits. Rice is the staple food of Thailand, while breads and pastas are popular in the West. This difference can be attributed to the fact that rice is a grain native to Southeast Asia, where Thailand is located. In comparison, wheat was introduced to Europe from the Middle East during the Bronze Age.

The traditional cuisine of Thailand is based on using five core flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy. Rice provides the perfect canvas for these flavors to meld together, creating a unique flavor profile not found elsewhere in the world. As such, it has become an integral part of Thai culture, with many people eating it as part of every meal. On the other hand, breads and pastas tend to be more bland, providing a neutral base that allows the other ingredients to shine.

In terms of nutrition, rice is considered to be a healthier option than breads or pastas. It contains fewer calories per serving and is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Rice is low in fat and gluten-free, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions. By contrast, breads and pastas are often made with refined flours and added sugars, making them higher in calories and potentially less nutritious.

The main difference between Thai culture and Western cultures when it comes to food habits lies in the fact that rice is the staple food of Thailand, while breads and pastas are popular in the West. This difference reflects both the geography and culinary traditions of each region, and ultimately affects how we eat today.

Family Values: Traditional family values are highly respected in Thailand, while individualism is more accepted in the West

Thailand is a country with deeply rooted traditions and values that are passed down through generations. Family ties are particularly important, and traditional family values such as respect for elders, filial piety, and intergenerational caretaking are highly respected in Thai culture. In contrast, Western cultures tend to emphasize individualism over collective responsibility. While the nuclear family structure remains prevalent in many countries in the West, it is often augmented by extended networks of friends and acquaintances who provide additional support and resources.

The importance placed on family life in Thailand is reflected in its language. For example, Thai kinship terms indicate not only the relationship between two people but also the degree of politeness used when addressing them. Moreover, the Thai language has dozens of words for referring to various members of one’s family, including parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, siblings, cousins, and other relatives. This indicates how much emphasis is placed on familial bonds.

Thais take great pride in their ancestry and lineage, with families tracing their histories back multiple generations. Many Thai families make an effort to maintain strong connections between different branches of the family tree. As a result, even distant relatives may be expected to help out each other financially or otherwise in times of need. Such deep-seated loyalty and devotion towards family can be seen as a cornerstone of Thai culture.

While individualism is accepted and encouraged in the West, traditional family values remain strongly entrenched in Thai society. From language to customs, the bond between relatives is held in high esteem, and families make a concerted effort to stay connected and look after one another.

Gender Roles: Men have traditionally held higher positions in society in Thailand, while gender equality is becoming increasingly important in the West

In Thailand, men have historically held higher positions in society than women. This is due to the fact that for centuries the country was largely agrarian and patriarchal; with men traditionally playing a larger role in farming and other agricultural activities while women were relegated to domestic roles within the home. As such, there has been an emphasis on male leadership and decision-making authority in Thailand.

Despite this traditional approach to gender roles, Thai culture has evolved over time, particularly in recent decades. There is now a greater acceptance of female participation in business and politics, as well as increased educational opportunities for both genders. Women are also increasingly becoming involved in various professions, including medicine, engineering, and law. However, there is still much progress to be made in terms of achieving true gender equality.

Meanwhile, in Western countries, gender equality has become increasingly important. From the workplace to the home, more attention is being paid to issues of parity between men and women. This includes policies and laws designed to protect against discrimination, equal pay for equal work, and support for families with dual working parents. Initiatives such as diversity training and unconscious bias awareness campaigns have been implemented in many organizations. These efforts seek to promote fairness and equity in all aspects of life.

Clothing: Brightly colored clothing is common in Thailand, while neutral tones are popular in the West

Clothing is one of the most visible differences between Thai and Western cultures. While neutral tones are commonplace in Western attire, brightly colored clothing is more common in Thailand. Thais often opt for hues such as yellow, red, and pink when choosing their garments, while these colors may be seen less frequently in Western fashion. Similarly, patterns and embroidery are popular among many Thai people, while they may not be as accepted in some parts of the West.

Traditional Thai clothing is particularly unique; men wear loose-fitting pants known as “sarong”, which can be either short or long depending on preference. Women usually wear a tube top with a wrap skirt that reaches down to their ankles. This style has been around since the early 19th century and is still very much in use today. Traditional dress for both genders typically features intricate designs and patterns – something rarely found in Western clothing.

Thai accessories also tend to differ from those in the West. For example, headwear such as straw hats and conical hats are commonly used by farmers and other laborers in Thailand to protect themselves from the sun. These items may be considered strange or unusual in the West, but they are widely accepted in Thailand. Moreover, jewelry such as anklets and bracelets are quite popular among Thai women, while this type of adornment is not nearly as widespread in the West.

Clearly, there are numerous disparities between Thai and Western clothing styles. From bright colors to traditional dresses, it is easy to see how the two cultures have developed different tastes in fashion.

Respect for Elders: In Thailand, elders are given great respect, while in the West, age is not necessarily seen as an indicator of wisdom or authority

One of the most significant differences between Thai and Western culture is how respect for elders is viewed. In Thailand, elders are given great respect and their opinions are held in high regard. This respect is often seen as a sign of wisdom and authority within the community. Meanwhile, in the West, age is not necessarily seen as an indicator of wisdom or authority. Instead, it is more common to show respect based on accomplishments, knowledge, and experience rather than age alone.

Thailand’s reverence for elders is also demonstrated through its language. For example, when speaking with older individuals, people use a special form of address that shows respect by using honorific titles such as “aunty” or “uncle”. Younger Thais will typically kneel down and bow their heads when greeting elderly relatives. On the other hand, Western cultures do not have such specific forms of etiquette regarding the treatment of elders.

The importance of respecting one’s elders is ingrained in Thai society from a very young age. Children are taught to listen to their elders and follow their advice. This tradition carries into adulthood, where people continue to pay deference to those who are older. By contrast, Westerners tend to view age-based respect as antiquated and unnecessary.

There is a clear difference between how Thai and Western cultures treat their elders. While in Thailand, elders are revered and respected, in the West this is not necessarily the case. Respect is instead earned through accomplishment and merit.

Technology Use: The use of technology is widespread in the West, while it is less common in Thailand

Thailand and the West have drastically different approaches to technology use. Technology is ubiquitous in the Western world, with many individuals owning multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches. These are used for a variety of purposes, from communication to entertainment. In contrast, Thailand has not seen the same level of technological adoption. Mobile phones are commonplace, but computers and other electronic devices remain uncommon outside urban areas. Even then, their usage tends to be limited to internet browsing or gaming, rather than activities that require specialized software.

The difference in technological literacy between Thai citizens and those in the West can be partially attributed to cost. Many high-tech gadgets come at a premium price tag, making them inaccessible to much of the population. This economic barrier prevents people from being able to benefit from new technologies, which may help explain why they are not as widely used in Thailand. There is a cultural resistance to embracing new technologies; Thais tend to be more conservative when it comes to adopting unfamiliar ideas and concepts. As such, there is less incentive to invest in expensive gadgets that may become obsolete soon after purchase.

Despite these differences, Thailand is slowly becoming more technologically advanced. The government is actively encouraging citizens to adopt digital tools and services, including the creation of free Wi-Fi hotspots in public places. There is also an increase in the number of start-ups focused on developing innovative products for the local market. With continued investment and awareness, Thailand could eventually catch up with the West in terms of its technological development.

Personal Space: Personal space is much smaller in Thailand compared to the West

Thailand is known for its unique culture and traditions, with many of these being quite different from those seen in the West. One such area where this difference can be felt quite strongly is that of personal space. In Thailand, the concept of personal space tends to be much smaller than what one might experience in Western countries. This means that people are more likely to stand close together when speaking, touch each other as a sign of affection, or have physical contact during conversations.

In addition to this, there is also a greater sense of collective identity in Thai culture. People tend to view themselves as part of a larger group rather than individuals, which contributes to their willingness to be in closer proximity with others. This is not only true among family members but also among friends and even strangers. Consequently, it is not uncommon to see groups of people talking in close quarters without feeling uncomfortable.

There is also an element of respect involved in maintaining smaller distances between people. Thais often show great reverence towards elders or authority figures, and therefore will naturally keep a certain distance while conversing. Similarly, visitors to Thailand may find themselves standing further away from locals out of politeness or respect. All of these factors combine to create a very different perception of personal space compared to what is typically seen in the West.

Time Management: Punctuality is not always taken seriously in Thailand, while it is highly valued in the West

When it comes to time management, the differences between Thai culture and western cultures can be stark. In Thailand, punctuality is not always taken as seriously as in the West; for example, if someone says they will arrive at a certain time, this does not necessarily mean that they are going to be there on time. The same goes for other activities such as meetings, classes or work shifts.

In contrast, in many Western countries, punctuality is of great importance; people tend to adhere strictly to their schedules and take pride in being on time. It is seen as a sign of respect and discipline, while lateness may be viewed as disrespectful or unprofessional. This cultural difference has led to some confusion when members of both cultures interact, as one might expect different behavior from the other.

Another aspect of time management that differs between Thailand and the West is how long tasks are expected to take. While in the West it is common to set strict deadlines and expectations for completing tasks, in Thailand there is often more flexibility. People may take longer than expected to complete a task, which could lead to frustration in a westerner accustomed to stricter time constraints. However, in most cases, Thai people have an innate sense of urgency and responsibility, so deadlines are usually met in the end.

Work Ethic: Working hard and long hours is expected in Thailand, while work-life balance is prioritized in the West

In Thailand, the work ethic is very different from that of many Western countries. Working hard and long hours is expected in Thai culture, while in the West, a greater emphasis is placed on having a healthy work-life balance. This difference can be attributed to the fact that Thais generally value social cohesion over individualistic pursuits.

The concept of ‘saving face’ is deeply entrenched in Thai society, where people are more likely to focus on their reputation among peers than personal accomplishment. Thus, when it comes to work, the focus is less on how much money one earns or how successful they are, but rather how hard they work and how loyal they are to their employer. As such, working hard and long hours is viewed as a sign of dedication and loyalty, which may explain why Thais tend to put in more time at the office than their western counterparts.

Another factor contributing to the difference in work ethics between the two cultures could be the economic disparities between them. In Thailand, there is still a large segment of the population who live below the poverty line, making employment an essential means for survival. Therefore, Thai workers may have a greater appreciation for job security and stability, and therefore feel compelled to work longer hours to ensure that their jobs remain secure. On the other hand, those living in the West often have access to better wages and higher standards of living, so there is less pressure to work as long and hard as someone in Thailand.

Ultimately, the differences in work ethic between Thailand and the West can be largely attributed to cultural values, economics, and social norms. While both societies place importance on productivity and efficiency, the way these ideals are manifested differs greatly depending on where you are in the world.

Marriage Practices: Arranged marriages are still common in Thailand, while love matches are preferred in the West

Marriage practices are one of the most significant differences between Thai and Western cultures. Arranged marriages have been a longstanding tradition in Thailand for centuries, with families often playing an important role in arranging unions. In such cases, parents or other family members will select suitable partners for their children based on social status, wealth, education level, and compatibility. The couples may not have known each other prior to being matched, but it is expected that they agree to the arrangement.

In contrast, marriage customs in the West tend to favor love matches over arranged unions. Love matches refer to two people who come together out of mutual respect and affection. This type of relationship has become increasingly popular in recent years as more individuals seek to find a partner with whom they can form strong emotional connections. While divorce rates remain high in many countries, those entering into love matches are less likely to end up divorced than those who enter into arranged marriages.

Though marriage arrangements in Thailand still heavily favor arranged unions, there is some evidence that the trend towards love matches is beginning to emerge. A study conducted by researchers at Mahidol University found that younger generations were increasingly open to finding romantic partners through online dating platforms and other informal channels. More couples are engaging in premarital cohabitation before committing to marriage, which indicates a shift away from traditional norms. Ultimately, it appears that both Thai and Western culture are becoming more accepting of diverse forms of partnerships.

Eating Habits: Sharing food from one plate is normal in Thailand, while each person usually has their own dish in the West

When discussing the biggest differences between Thai culture and western cultures, one of the most prominent distinctions lies in their respective eating habits. In Thailand, it is customary for food to be served on one plate which is then shared by everyone at the table. This practice allows for a more communal experience as people can sample different dishes and interact with each other while dining. In contrast, in the west, it is common for each person to have their own dish or plate. This arrangement ensures that everyone has access to their desired meal without having to share it with others.

This difference in eating habits reflects broader cultural values held by Thais and westerners alike. For example, many Thais believe in showing respect to those around them by not taking too much from the same plate. Similarly, they view sharing meals as an opportunity to come together and bond over food. Conversely, westerners often prioritize individual autonomy and independence when it comes to food choices, preferring to make decisions about what they eat without being influenced by anyone else’s opinion.

In addition to this, there are other subtle nuances in the way Thais and westerners approach mealtimes. For instance, while it is normal to take your time and linger during meals in Thailand, westerners typically try to finish quickly so they can move onto other activities. Thais rarely ask for seconds whereas westerners may do so if they are still hungry. These small differences demonstrate how even something as seemingly simple as eating can reveal the deeper cultural norms of any given society.

Political Views: Democracy is the norm in the West, while military rule has been prominent in Thailand

Thailand’s political system is drastically different from those of western countries, where democracy and the rule of law are heavily emphasized. In Thailand, military rule has been prominent throughout much of its modern history. This began in 1932 with the overthrow of the absolute monarchy and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. Since then, there have been numerous coups, including one in 2006 which resulted in the dissolution of parliament and the appointment of a new prime minister by the military junta.

The Thai people have also shown strong support for the military rule; in recent polls, they have expressed overwhelming approval of the country’s current government. This is largely due to the fact that the military is seen as an effective stabilizing force, preventing further chaos and unrest. Despite this, there have been some efforts towards democratization, such as the passage of a new constitution in 2007 which granted more rights to citizens and enshrined certain democratic principles.

However, despite these steps forward, it is clear that Thailand still has a long way to go before it can be considered a true democracy. The military remains deeply entrenched in politics, and even though elections are held periodically, the outcome is often predetermined. Moreover, the military continues to wield considerable influence over the judicial system, making it difficult for dissidents to challenge their authority. As such, while Thailand may be taking small steps towards democracy, it is clear that it is still far behind many of its western counterparts.

Conversation Styles: Conversations tend to be indirect in Thailand, while directness is encouraged in the West

In Thailand, conversations tend to be indirect in nature. This means that the speakers often avoid direct statements or confrontations and instead use subtle cues such as body language, intonation, and innuendo to convey meaning. This is because Thais value politeness and harmony, which makes it difficult to have open and honest conversations. Thai culture places a greater emphasis on social status and respect than Western cultures do, so people are less likely to express their opinion if they think it could offend someone with higher status.

In contrast, conversations in the West tend to be more direct. People are encouraged to state their opinions openly and honestly without fear of offending anyone. Directness is also seen as a sign of respect, since it demonstrates an openness to engage in dialogue and shows a willingness to listen to others’ points of view. Moreover, frank discussions can help bring issues to light quickly and allow for faster problem-solving.

In addition to differences in conversation styles, there are other aspects of communication that differ between Thai and Western cultures. For example, eye contact plays a different role in each culture; while making strong eye contact during a conversation is important in the West, it is considered rude and impolite in Thailand. Interrupting someone in the middle of a sentence is seen as disrespectful in the West, whereas it is not uncommon in Thailand, especially when several people are talking at once. Nonverbal communication, such as hand gestures, facial expressions, and posture, can take on different meanings depending on the cultural context.

Beauty Standards: Fair skin is considered attractive in Thailand, while tanned skin is often desired in the West

In Thailand, beauty standards often revolve around fair skin. In fact, lighter complexions are so highly sought after that the country has become a hotspot for cosmetic procedures designed to lighten the skin. This preference is believed to be rooted in both cultural and historical influences, as well as religious beliefs. The ancient Indian practice of Ayurveda medicine recommends keeping the body cool by using herbs and spices to reduce inflammation and redness caused by sun exposure. During the 19th century, Chinese traders viewed those with fairer skin as more prestigious and higher-class, thus influencing the Thai perception of beauty.

Conversely, western culture typically favors tanned skin. Sun exposure became increasingly popular during the 20th century due to its association with leisure and wealth, which enabled people to travel abroad and spend time outdoors. Moreover, celebrities were frequently seen sporting golden tans, setting a precedent for others to follow. Therefore, having a tan is often seen as an attractive feature in many countries throughout the world, while it is not necessarily considered desirable in Thailand.

Hospitality: Hospitality is highly prized in Thailand, while politeness is expected in the West

Hospitality is a key part of Thai culture, and it’s often seen as one of the biggest differences between Thai culture and western cultures. In Thailand, hospitality is highly prized, with guests being welcomed into homes and treated with great respect and kindness. This hospitality extends beyond friends and family to strangers and visitors from abroad, who are often made to feel at home in Thailand despite cultural differences.

In contrast, politeness is expected in many western countries, but not necessarily hospitality. Guests may be greeted politely, but it isn’t usually accompanied by the same warmth or generosity that is common in Thailand. It’s important for those travelling to Thailand to remember this difference when visiting – if you’re invited into someone’s home, expect generous hospitality, including food, drinks and conversation.

Gift-giving is another way that Thais show their hospitality, with small gifts exchanged when visiting or receiving guests. These gifts can range from small trinkets to more elaborate items, such as traditional clothing or handmade crafts. While gift-giving is also common in the west, it is much less formalised and often takes place only on special occasions.

Demonstrations of Affection: Public displays of affection are discouraged in Thailand, while they are more acceptable in the West

Public displays of affection are an important part of expressing one’s love and appreciation for another person in many Western countries, but they are discouraged in Thai culture. This is due to the Buddhist belief that physical intimacy should be kept private. The traditional Thai society emphasizes a certain degree of modesty and respect when it comes to public interactions, so expressions of intimate emotion are rarely seen in public spaces.

This cultural difference extends beyond just physical displays of affection. In Thailand, most conversations will remain formal and courteous even between close friends or family members. Openly discussing personal feelings or matters such as romantic relationships is considered inappropriate in Thai culture, while this type of discourse is more common in the West. Physical contact between people who are not related is also frowned upon in Thailand, which can make visitors from other cultures feel uncomfortable.

Thai culture also places a strong emphasis on respecting elders, and this includes refraining from speaking loudly or engaging in behavior that could be perceived as disrespectful. Young people must always show reverence towards their elders and behave in ways that demonstrate their obedience. On the other hand, Western societies generally allow young people greater freedom to express themselves in public without worrying about offending older generations.