What is intriguing is how honesty interplays with other values, which are unique to specific cultures and ethnic groups. In the U.S., certain dishonest behaviors such as fraud, stealing or perjury are censured. Other dishonest behaviors are more tolerated.
Children receive mixed messages about the value of honesty.
If dishonesty is ever justifiable for the Asian child, it may be when the value of family pride is threatened. This belief encourages individuals to sacrifice their individual needs for the good of the group. If the good of the group is threatened, honesty may be viewed as a less important value than protection of all members of the extended family. Thus a child may learn by example that it may be acceptable to tell small lies if they protect the safety and security of the extended family. Honesty is likewise a primary value among most Native American tribal groups.