One of the most fundamental assumptions about Guardsmen that is shared the world over is that Protectors are closer to wild beasts than to human (much as how werewolves have been perceived in mythology). This perception has been instrumental in forming the social roles of Guardsmen, which while often varied according to local customs and history nearly always plays out with the Handler in a dominant, controlling role over their Protector, who is often viewed as the Handler's "property".

Protectors are seen as wild, uncontrolled beasts who will attack people without cause. Many first world cultures tend to downplay the more blood-thirsty aspects of that reputation but it still applies to many issues such as Protectors' legal status and standing, and their ability to function in the larger society, as they often cannot hold down jobs or get a college education without their Handler being physically present. Likewise, Handlers are seen as reasoning, level-headed and "more like humans" and are therefore often granted more autonomy and authority.

Western Culture
Even up to the current era, Protectors are often granted the same legal standing as wives were in the 1800s — they cannot independently own property, take a job without their Handler's permission (and often not even then, if their Handler will not be present during duties), represent themselves in court, serve on a jury, or obtain a higher education without their Handler's permission. In Canada and the U.S.A., Protectors were given the right to vote along with women, as that was tagged on as a way to discourage support for universal suffrage ("Women and Wolves Drive Us to Ruin!" was a very popular anti-suffrage slogan in the U.S.). The right of Protectors to vote or participate in government varies throughout Europe and Asia, but is still limited.

The other side of this is that Handlers are often held accountable for every action that a Protector takes. In situations where a Protector is found guilty of a crime, the Handler almost always has to suffer the punishment along with their Protector. Likewise, if a Protector does something heroic or contributes to the arts or sciences, they are often only recognized in the name of their Handler (e.g. "This award goes to Handler Smith's Protector, Alice.")