What are Dutch character traits?

Answer 1

Like other northern Europeans, the Dutch tend to be logical rather than emotional. They hold strong opinions and freely express their opinions. For the most part they have a "no nonsense" attitude. When speaking, they tend to be direct and literal. They may come across as somewhat insensitive, obstinate or morally righteous. In fact they are the most tolerant and liberal-minded people in the world. Despite their affluence, they are inclined to be thrifty and frown on those who flaunt their wealth

Answer 2.

I live in Holland, my husband is Dutch. I am English, born and raised in London, with Irish roots. I mention this because it might explain my viewpoint to those readers who see or experience the Dutch differently to me.

Generally, I find the Dutch would shun the idea of open, deep or honest expressions. Many of the Dutch I've met tend to be duplicitous in their interactions in that they rarely say what they truly mean or think, if the subject is anything deep and meaningful, preferring to keep quiet and silent or say the opposite of the truth. Sometimes, brutal honesty will explode from a Dutch person, usually in a comical vein, but still that's not common, I think. Expect friendly banter, but all very much on the surface of things. Expect to be quizzed about yourself, but don't expect the quizzer to share much about themselves. If you are also a quizzer, which I'm not, that might work OK for you here. I prefer relaxed, fluid conversations.

The first impression is that the Dutch are very friendly and smiley, but one can expect to be always kept at 'arm's length' by a typical Dutch person. It is almost impossible to break past the invisible barrier into a real connection with a true Dutch native. I don't wish to sound critical, I'm just observing the way life here.

Also, the people tend to have a basically selfish or self-serving attitude to things. They hate to follow rules in general, and cannot see that this makes life difficult everybody.

Examples:

-Most hate to stand in an orderly queue and some will attempt to create two lines, or wheedle in front somehow.

-Too many allow their dogs to defecate in childrens' play areas and not pick it up, even though there are designated dog parks nearby.

-Driving too close for safety in all weathers and overtaking very close and without indicating is normal here.

The Dutch love to shake hands on every meeting, which is delightful in this day and age, but not so delightful when you discover that most rarely wash their hands after toileting! Yes, really.

The average person here seems focused on having the right clothes and shoes, on looking and smelling clean, having clean windows and a tidy garden and two holidays each year. In short, everything is done for the 'eye', for appearances sake. But don't look too closely or try to connect a little deeper, because the reality is not always pleasant and can be disappointing.

On the plus side, if you prefer 'friends' and neighbours to keep their distance, never come to borrow a 'cup of sugar' or 'drop-in' for a cup of coffee - unless they've first made an appointment - then this is the place for you!

This is a general observation. I'm sure there are plenty of Dutch people who also frown upon these character traits, and know perfectly well how to take their place in an orderly queue!