Suppose that somebody greets you, and asks "How are you?" You answer with "I am well, thank you. And you?" Should an answer be expected?
I know that who answers could say "I am well too." even if it is not true, but would not answering be understood negatively?
If it would happen to me, and I don't hear any answer to my "I am well, thank you. And you?" I would think I have not spoken loudly enough to be understood, and I would probably repeat what I said.
Best Answer
I would expect an answer, although I wouldn't expect more than a polite "Fine, thanks" or similar.
I think most English speakers would answer with something, but the question is usually out of politeness and a full answer isn't usually expected. Unless you're particularly close, they probably wouldn't give a long-winded explanation, in the same way you first answered “I am well, thank you. And you?”
If they don't answer, I wouldn't really worry about it as it's usually a courtesy to the other person, and I'd just continue the conversation as normal.
An exception: My mum once told me she went to visit the doctor. He asked: "Hello, how are you?" She answered: "Fine, thanks." Then after a moment realised it wasn't just a polite question and said: "Oh, are you really asking? Well, I... [the reason for visiting the doctor]".