In many marriages, procreation is a higher priority than marital love and intimacy. Children are greatly valued and not having children may be a cause of unhappiness.

Husbands often take little responsibility for the care of very young children and infants; however, when boys turn four or five, fathers often assume a more active role.

There is a direct relationship between the number of children in a family (especially boys) and the amount of prestige experienced by the father and his family. A large family is a sign of prestige.

School classes are often quite large and may have as many as sixty students at the elementary level.

Storytelling is very common in schools in the Middle East.

Some of the most important character traits for Middle Easterners include generosity, bravery, friendship, and hospitality.

Some groups (e.g., Saudi Arabians) consider the left hand to be unclean. It is to be used for lavatory purposes only. Some people may be offended if the left hand is used when greeting others.

It is generally acceptable to speak loudly in conversation. Observers may think that conversational partners are angry because of the loudness level of the communication.

Usually it is considered discourteous to say no. Words such as perhaps or maybe are often used in place of the word no. Some families indicate agreement with the recommendations of professionals because the expression of disagreement is considered rude.

Many professionals speak with the student’s mother first. In some Middle Eastern families, the father is the official liaison between the family and any "strangers." Thus, professionals need to consult with the father first.