This is why the ESOL teacher would be wise not to place a lot of emphasis on fast-moving and closely timed activities. This creates a very tense learning environment for the student who grew up in a relatively relaxed home atmosphere where minutes, hours, or days are rarely considered to be critical factors. The communication style of Hispanics is much more formal than that of the Anglos. Respect is highly valued and shown by using formal titles. Hispanics tend to show affection through touching.
Friends can kiss, males hug, shake hands or pat each other on the back.
This has somewhat influenced Anglo behavior in recent times. Hispanics tend to be very polite, which can be interpreted by Anglos as being subservient or servile. Children Hispanics have a very special way with children, a way that appears to be too permissive. It is very common to see small children in church, running toward the altar, and there, sitting down during a service. One hardly sees Hispanics spanking their children in public.