What do we learn about the culture of south regarding loyalty to family?

In Chapter Seven, we learn about loyalty and love within the family through Leslie's relationship with her parents, particularly her father. In this chapter, Leslie's actions are directly influenced by a desire to help and establish a closer relationship with her father. They both learn the value of spending time together, working together, and establishing a common goal.

In addition, we see what the community believes is family loyalty when the students at school turn against and make fun of Janice after she reveals the physical violence she experiences at home. Family loyalty, within the community, demands silence. Rather than garnering sympathy in telling her friends about the beatings, Janice is isolated.... viewed as disloyal by her classmates and made fun of for her disclosure.