Martin confirmed many observations, pointing to the parallel influences of collectivist culture and Buddhist values as essential sources of support. Before Western studies of public health ever reached Thailand, citizens sought care and advice at local Buddhist temples and continued to do so as urban expansion created severe disparities in access among the population. Martin further attributed the ability to communally seek solutions to the gentle temperament praised in the Buddhist religion. In general, a Thai will avoid confrontation—not from a fear of individual repercussion, but from a concern for overall harmony, he shared.