BookUnit3.pptVIP

Contents Culture shock is the anxiety, feelings of frustration, alienation and anger that may occur when a person is emplaced in a new culture. One of the most common causes of culture shock involves individuals in a foreign country. Culture shock can be described as consisting of at least one of four distinct phases: Honeymoon stage, horror stage, adjustment stage, and Home stage. There is no true way to entirely prevent culture shock, as individuals in any society are personally affected by cultural contrasts differently. Four Stages of Cultural Shock a. Honeymoon stage During this period, the differences between the old and new culture are seen in a romantic light. For example, in moving to a new country, an individual might love the new food, the pace of life, and the locals’ habits. During the first few weeks, most people are fascinated by the new culture. They associate with nationals who speak their language, and who are polite to the foreigners. This period is full of observations and new discoveries. Like most honeymoon periods, this stage eventually ends. b. Horror Stage After some time (usually around three months, depending on the individual), differences between the old and new culture become apparent and may create anxiety. Excitement may eventually give way to unpleasant feelings of frustration and anger as one continues to experience unfavorable events that may be perceived as strange and offensive to ones cultural attitude. Language barriers, stark differences in public hygiene, traffic safety, food accessibility and quality may heighten the sense of disconnection from the surroundings. c. Adjustment Stage Again, after some time (usually 6 to 12 months), one grows accustomed to the new culture and develops routines. One knows what to expect in most situations and the host country no longer feels all that new. One becomes concerned with basic living again, and things become more “normal”. One starts to develop problem-solving skills for dealing w