Romania is a hierarchical society where age and position are respected.
. Older people are viewed as wise since they have earned life experience.
. Romanians expect the most senior person, by age or position, to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group.
. Titles are very important and denote respect.
. It is expected that you will use a person's title and their surname until invited to use their first name.
The Family
. The family is the foundation of the social structure and forms the basis of stability for most people.
. The individual derives a social network and assistance in times of need from their family.
. Families are patriarchal. The father is the head of the family.
Privacy
. Romanians are formal and reserved with a strong need for privacy.
. Most do not trust strangers readily.
. They are generally shy and quiet when you first meet and admire modesty and humility in themselves and others.
. Once you develop a personal relationship Romanians will open up slightly.
. Although always polite, they seldom move to a first-name basis with people outside their extended family or very close friends.