Importance of Family

The social system is centered around the family. The family is one's first and main responsibility. An individual's social network is largely formed by their extended families, which are still the norm. Between their own circle and outsiders, Poles erect a line. Naturally, intimate friends and "family friends" are included in the inner circle along with family members.

Poles will behave differently around their friends and family and with strangers. The foundation of a person's social and professional network is their inner circle. One can count on the members of the inner circle to provide advise, assist in finding employment, navigate bureaucracy, or even help rent an apartment. Extending favors and employing contacts to make things happen are done according to a complex protocol.