Stages and Symptoms of Culture Shock

Culture shock is a real state which shares certain stages. Each stage in the process is characterized by "symptoms" or outward signs typifying certain kinds of behavior. These are described here.

adapted from work by
Laurette Bennhold-Samaan and Craig Storti, 1996

Each stage in the process is characterized by "symptoms" or outward signs typifying certain kinds of behavior:

Honey Moon	Initially many people are fascinated and excited by everything new. The visitor is elated to be in a new culture.
Culture Shock	The individual is immersed in new problems: housing, transportation, shopping, and language. Mental fatigue results from continuously straining to comprehend the foreign language.
Initial Adjustment	Everyday activities such as housing and shopping are no longer major problems. Although the visitor may not yet be fluent in the language spoken, basic ideas and feelings in the second language can be expressed
Mental Isolation	Individuals have been away from their family and good friends for a long period of time and may feel lonely. Many still feel that they cannot express themselves as well as they can in their native language. Frustration and sometimes a loss of self-confidence result. Some individuals remain at this stage.
Adjustment	A routine (e.g., work, business, or school) has been established. The visitor has accepted the habits, customs, foods, and characteristics of the people in the new culture. The visitor feels comfortable with friends, associates, and the language of the country

Strategies For Coping With Stress

Take care of yourself: Rest, develop daily routines, protect your health.

Reduce uncertainty: Seek information, take action.

Get away from it all: Exercise, read, play.

Reduce demands: Establish priorities, eliminate some activities, reduce self-imposed demands.

Assume control: Make choices and decisions, make your needs known.

Finish unfinished business: Write it out, express emotions, set short-term goals.

Take advantage of your environment: Establish a support group, use resources, share in others’ experiences.