Understanding Behaviors of Arab American Men
- 1). Understand his relationship to family. For the Arab American man, family is more important than his individual identity and more influential than his community, church or country. In Arab American society, the identity of a man is influenced and shaped by his family and a result will follow the socio-economic, political and religious guides established by family elders.
- 2). Consider his upbringing. Arab American men vary widely in terms of identifying a singular gender specific role or characteristic for any one group. On average, to understand an Arab American man is to first understand his family and then his father. However, it is important to note that factors such as country of origin, a rural or urban setting, as well as external cultural influences that may have changed the family dynamic also determine how an Arab American man will define himself and his role within his family structure and social network.
- 3). Date an Arab American man to gain a more personal understanding. Rather than apply gross generalizations and stereotype, date an Arab American man to determine if key behavioral characteristics can be identified. However, keep in mind that, as with Italian American or Latin American men, for example, the similarities and variances in behavior, perspective and tradition can vary widely, depending on everything from level of education and wealth, to personal temperament and social training. Consider areas like importance of family, role of women and men in the home, child rearing, sex and marriage.
- 4). Learn more about Arab American men in general. Ask questions and read literature written by Arab-American men and women regarding marriage and gender roles. Move beyond cultural celebration books to memoirs and first-hand stories about dating and involvement with Arab American men. Consider "Thirty-Three Secrets Arab Men Never Tell American Women" (see Resources).
