Culture Shock
Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation, loneliness, insecurity or surprise that can occur when a person has to operate within an entirely different cultural or social environment, such as a foreign country. While culture shock varies in length from days to possibly months, students have the ability to mitigate culture shock by first understanding the process.
STAGES OF CULTURE SHOCK
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Pre-Departure |
In the midst of packing and researching your host country, you feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness about your time abroad. |
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Honeymoon |
Upon arriving in your host country, your excitement is through the roof! From taking photos to waiting for a bus, every moment seems like a thrilling adventure. |
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Conflict |
Several days or weeks into your international experience, you feel a sense of isolation and frustration with everyday tasks and differences between your home country and the host culture. |
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Adjustment |
As your feelings of irritability subside, your host country begins to feel comfortable and you become oriented in your new way of life. |
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Re-Entry |
Upon your return to the U.S., readjusting to home life may seem difficult. You find that not only have you changed but your surroundings have changed as well. |
GENERAL REACTIONS
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The Critic |
This student not only criticizes everything but also harps on the terrible nature of the entire trip. |
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The Native |
This student speaks very highly of her host country and wishes to blend in with the natives. |
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The Fugitive |
This student retracts from social interaction due to disappointment and homesickness. |
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The Chauvinist |
This student constantly speaks of her home country’s superiority to anyone who will listen. |
| Additional Options for Coping with Culture Shock |