1. Six Elements of Norwegian Culture
Chynna Chan & Catherine Demos

2. 5 Examples of Enculturation
Dressing Norwegian children in traditional clothes: elaborate skirts, stockings, shoes w/ silver pins.
Engaging in various outdoor Norwegian activities like skiing, hiking, & boating.
Arranging furniture closely in homes to encourage conversation amongst family.
Norwegians regularly eating a brown cheese that is thinly sliced with a cheese plane and eaten on bread.
Children taught that they are equal with every other citizen- that they are no better than anyone else. (Norwegian value of egalitarianism.)

3. Languages Spoken
Norwegian is the most widely spoken Language in Norway followed by:
Bokmal: written language of 80-90% of the population
Nynorsk: rural spoken Norwegian rather than cultured

4. Religious & Non- Religious Belief System
Evangelical Lutheran with 76.1% of the population officially belonging to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway
The Roman Catholic Church is the next largest religion
Non Religious
Norwegians are expected to be thoughtful and kind and by tradition, they will help you in anyway that they can
Visitors of Norway quickly notice that in public places, sitting on the bus or train, Norwegians do not normally greet strangers or start conversation, yet they are not impolite

5. Values
Norwegian society today values democracy and freedom of expression
Equality among genders and all people
Freedom of expression and freedom to practice one’s faith
Tolerance and respect
Economic and Social inequality
Active participation in organizations and the society as a large

6. Attitudes Value an honest and caring personality
Art and culture driven
Strong love for outdoor and recreational activities
Welcoming
Excellent time managers
Modest thinking
Refuse to criticize each other
They do not flaunt their wealth or financial achievements and look down on people that do

7. Manners Do not give wreaths, even at Christmas
Do not give even number of flowers
Invitations are generally given verbally
Most food, including sandwiches are eaten with utensils
Do not begin eating until the host of the dinner starts
Women must put their glasses down first after a toast
Business meetings are typically informal
Prefer little small talk, in order to get to the business discussion quickly

8. Customs
Norwegians celebrate their National Day on May 17, dedicated to the Constitution of Norway
Many people wear traditional costumes called “bunad”
Traditional Norwegian St. Hansbal (midsummer) bonfire
Common Christian holidays are also celebrated, the most being Christmas

9. Communication
Shake hands and say good bye individually when arriving or departing
Greetings are casual, with a firm handshake, direct eye contact and smile
Often introduce themselves with first name only
Shake hands with people on a first come first serve basis