Emotions in Norway

The way Norwegians express feelings may appear subtle for people from outside the Nordics.

Norwegians refrain from showing negative emotions:

Anger

Frustration

Or any type of aggressiveness.

Positive feelings they may express, but they will keep it subtle.

They will be excited without body movements,

Be happy in silence.

Except when watching cross-country skiing, football or drinking.

Then it is acceptable to show feelings.

Unless you come from Finland, Norwegians' emotional feedback will be challenging to interpret.

Everyone sees the world through their own cultural glasses. We interpret actions based on what it means in our own culture. When interacting with different cultures, we often need to make a conscious effort in order not to misinterpret what is being communicated.

The Social Guidebooks to Norway are guides to the Norwegian culture. They are tools for foreigners to understand Norwegians better, and for Norwegian to be aware of how their own culture differ from most of the world. The Social Guidebooks to Norway help adaptation, socialization and collaboration. Also available in Norwegian and Chinese.