American agreements have teeth. When people break their commitments, consequences follow—legal remedies, professional sanctions, reputational damage, or other penalties. This enforcement expectation gives agreements practical force. Americans expect that if agreements are breached, someone will do something about it.
Courts will enforce contracts. Professional bodies will discipline members. Social networks will shun those who cannot be trusted.
This enforcement system shapes behavior even when it is not invoked: knowing that breach has consequences keeps people honest. When you make agreements with Americans, understand that they expect these agreements to be enforceable and will pursue remedies if you fail to perform.
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