American families are in crisis, specially in the inner cities. Many think that the centerpiece of American life, the large middle class, is eroding and under economic threat. Violence is increasing, specially among the young, many of whom lack character education and supervision as parents' attention is directed toward work and earning a living. Under these circumstances, an expanding segment of the population is prone to homelessness, child or spousal abuse, substance abuse, paranoia, crime, hatred and intolerance. Communication and business practice must be adapted to local circumstances.
Generalizations regarding Latin America are dangerous.
Many of the countries differ greatly in socio-economic status, educational levels, governance, and composition of the population. Perhaps it is enough to convince global managers of the important distinctions that exist between the people of this region and Americans in critical matters like physical appearances, language, religion, family, social attitudes, and other assumptions that influence business practice and relationships. The social situation in Asia is normally peaceful, but also very dynamic, often volatile. Traditional societies are in transition. However, in these ancient lands and cultures, trade has always been the way to promote commercial exchange and prosperity.