Why does the extended family not smile much? They don’t seem happy to see their child.

Ugandan culture is very different from American culture in this regard. In America we smile frequently to convey everything is ok and good. In Ugandan culture conveying emotion is less common. There is nothing wrong with this dynamic but it can be confusing. Knowing this cultural difference is important so we don’t misinterpret a lack of emotion for a lack of love or support.