@Mark **********
Amazing Thailand !
very well observed. scratch the surface and there's a strong theme which you have captured and articulated well.
I've noticed the differences between the way western based cultures and thai culture approach relationship and love differ in many nuanced ways that flag the cultural expectations and differences are not to be underestimated!
I've observed, as you have, a profound lack of ability for thai for reflection, inability to own their part in a given interaction dynamic, and a abundantly clear pattern whereby Greng Jai is used as a shield and defence against disclosure and transparency.
The notable lack of self awareness leads to circumstances whereby frequently thai say what they want, but there's a theme of not actually knowing what they want...doesn't matter if they are highly educated, from North, south, east or western Thailand...perhaps this is why there's also a lack of meaningful social contract within the society itself.
I know little of Buddhism, however I've observed that many who practice the 5 precepts with devotion are focused on their karmic journey and their actions ( self serving) are related to duty and merit, rather than ultruism and sacrifice in the manner many Christian based societies approach their interactions and motivations.
I've noticed in romantic relationships the Thai focus on their happiness....not spiritual and psychological development. I don't see westerns approaching happiness as an entitlement.
There's also a resistance to blend cultures, perhaps because colonisation didn't occur as it has I'm many adjoining countries.