Culture Shock

What is it?

Very few transitions involve as many changes as we experience when we move to a new country, especially a country that is very different from our own. We lose our familiar signs, the things in our own cultures which help us understand the world and help us decide how to behave. Culture shock results from the anxiety or stress that not understanding all the signs causes. It happens to almost everyone who moves to another culture for a long time. Sometimes it's painful but it's also rewarding. It offers an opportunity to learn something about ourselves and the world.

What is it like?

Many people experience culture shock in different stages. These stages can be described as:
1) initial euphoria (honeymoon stage)
2) irritability or hostility
3) gradual adjustment
4) adaptation
5) re-entry shock (reverse culture shock)

People in the first stage, euphoria, feel excited and positive about their new experience. The differences they notice seem exciting and interesting and they have high expectations about their future experience.

People in the second stage, irritability and hostility, have begun to feel disappointed with their experience. The differences they once found interesting may make them frustrated or uncomfortable. They try to achieve goals but are confused about how to do it. They might feel defensive and angry and wish they could go home. Some people in this stage spend all their time with friends from their own country and begin stereotyping and criticizing the new country. Some people may begin eating or drinking too much. They may have trouble sleeping or feel like they don't have the energy to be as active as usual.

In the third stage, gradual adjustment, people begin to feel much better. They begin to understand a little more about their new home. As they learn more, they begin to feel less frustrated and more comfortable in the new place. They may not understand all the differences, but they are more accepting of them. In the third stage, adjustment, people begin to be able to function well in the new culture. They may find many things they enjoy about the new place. They develop a style and a way to behave that works in the new culture.

The last stage of culture shock is what happens to many people when they go home. For some people, it's even harder than the move to the new country. Returnees expect to feel at home but find they've changed and don't fit in the way they did before. They might go through all the stages of culture shock at home. Remember things that help you now, as you get used to your new home. They may help you again later.

What can I do about it?

It's important to know that your stay in the US may involve experiencing these stages of culture shock, sometimes even more than once. Don't try to avoid it - try to learn some new skills and you'll be happier in the long run. Some things you can do to help yourself adjust include: 1) finding out as much as you can about the US (your teachers and classes will be very helpful here); 2) trying to understand the reasons for things that are puzzling to you (ask questions) ; 3) choosing NOT to give in to negative stereotypes about your hosts; 4) treating yourself to something special that you enjoy every now and then. If you're patient with yourself and your new home, you will not only be happier, but also more successful!