The society in Thailand tends to be quite different than the one in the western hemisphere. As in many other parts of the world the social relationships are often defined by the age, wealth and personal or political power of the individual. Moreover, societal relationships are also governed by connections between ‘big’ people (Phu Yai) and ‘little’ people (Phu Noi). When meeting a new individual, a person from Thailand is most likely to assess the social status of the new individual in regards to their Phu Yai or Phu Noi status. This is an important custom in the Thai culture and society as these relationships are governed by a set of mutual obligations that requires the Phu Noi to defer to Phu Yai through obedience and respect. On the other hand, the Phu Yai have the obligation to care for the Phu Noi in the sense of offering them assistance and favors when they are requested as such.