Adapting to new cultures

Depending where they are going, students may experience varying levels of culture shock. But almost everyone, at some time during an experience abroad--or even in a different domestic environment in the U.S.--will experience some aspects of this phenomenon. Knowing in advance what might happen can be a useful aid in combating culture shock.

What is Culture Shock?

“Culture Shock” describes the psychological and physical reactions most people experience when they spend an extended period of time in a culture different from their own. Culture shock is precipitated by the anxiety that results from losing all our familiar signs and symbols of social intercourse. These signs or cues are the multiple and various ways in which we orient ourselves to the situations of daily life -- like knowing when to shake hands or how to greet someone when first meeting.

Look for these possible symptoms:  Intense discomfort • Irritability • Bitterness • Resentment • Depression • Withdrawal • Boredom

Characteristics of Culture Shock

• Avoiding contact with host nationals • Ethnocentrism • Helplessness • Stereotyping

• Hostility • Psychosomatic physical symptoms (e.g. headaches) • Compulsive eating, drinking, and/or sleeping

How to Reduce Culture Shock

Find out as much as you can about the host culture before leaving. You can do this by reading books on the culture, history, and customs of the country you will be visiting. Talking with people who have visited or lived in the country is also a great way to become familiar with what you may expect on your visit.

Make an effort to explore your own cultural identity and cultural values before leaving. Think about and write down typical values that characterize your culture and family. When you are in the host country, consciously look for logical reasons behind everything in the culture that seems strange, difficult, confusing or threatening.

Take every aspect of your experience and look at it from the perspective of your hosts. Find patterns and relationships. In addition, realize that sometimes there are not always logical reasons for everything! Relax your grip on your own culture so you can be open to learning and understanding.

Try not to succumb to the temptation to disparage the host culture. Resist making jokes and comments that are derogatory. Avoid hanging out with people who do this.

Find and use a “Cultural Informant” when you are there. This is someone you can ask questions and confide in when you are looking for answers and are confused. This may be a member of your host family, a peer or a teacher, or a friend.

Keep a journal to record not just what you have seen and done, but also what you think about those things and how you feel about the experience.

The information in this section has been adapted from the following sources: 1. Adler, Peter S. “The Transitional Experience: An Alternative View of Culture Shock.” Humanistic Psychology Vol. 15, No. 4, Fall 1975; 2. Kohls, L. Robert. Survival Kit for Overseas Living. Intercultural Press, 1984; 3. UNC Charlotte, Office of Education Abroad, Study Abroad Handbook.