Culture Shock: Understanding and Overcoming the Experience of Disorientation in a New Culture

 Culture shock is a term used to describe the feelings of disorientation or discomfort a person experiences when they move to or visit a culture different from their own. This experience often occurs when someone moves to a new country, changes their social environment, or transitions into a different way of life. People can feel confused or anxious because they are faced with unfamiliar customs, languages, and ways of life that are different from what they know.

Common Problems Associated with Culture Shock

There are several issues that people may encounter during culture shock. These include:

• Information overload: Feeling overwhelmed by the new information in a different environment.
• Language barriers: Difficulty in communicating with others due to language differences.
• Generation gap: Differences in attitudes, values, and behavior between people of different generations.
• Technology gap: Variations in technological development and the way people use technology.
• Homesickness: Longing for the familiar environment and people back home.
• Boredom: A feeling of dissatisfaction, especially when it is related to the lack of a stimulating job or activity.
• Cultural skill set: The challenge of learning new cultural norms and behaviors to successfully integrate into the new society.

Stages of Culture Shock: Oberg’s Four Phases Model

Kalervo Oberg, a researcher, first introduced a model in 1954 to explain the typical stages people go through when adjusting to a new culture. These stages help explain the emotional and psychological process of adaptation.

1. Honeymoon Phase: During the initial stage, everything about the new culture may seem exciting and fascinating. For example, when someone moves to a new country, they might enjoy trying new foods, exploring the local lifestyle, and meeting new people. This stage is usually marked by positive feelings, as the differences between the old and new culture appear romantic and interesting.

2. Negotiation Phase: After a few months, the excitement starts to fade, and individuals may begin to feel frustrated or anxious. The differences between the old and new culture become more apparent and may cause problems. For example, language barriers, unfamiliar social customs, or differences in public hygiene and safety might cause irritation or confusion. During this phase, individuals might feel lonely and homesick, as they struggle to connect with the new environment and people.

3. Adjustment Phase: After six to twelve months, people usually begin to adjust to their new surroundings. They start to understand how things work and develop daily routines. The new culture no longer feels strange, and the person feels more comfortable. They begin solving problems more effectively and develop a positive attitude toward the host culture. Negative feelings from the previous phase often start to diminish.

4. Adaptation (Mastery) Phase: At this final stage, people have adapted to the new culture and can interact comfortably with locals. However, this does not mean they have completely abandoned their own cultural identity. Many individuals maintain some aspects of their original culture, such as language or customs. This stage is often referred to as the "bicultural" stage, where people live comfortably in both cultures.

Outcomes of Culture Shock

According to Oberg's model, there are three primary outcomes after the adjustment phase:

1. Rejectors: Some people may find it too difficult to accept the host culture and feel isolated. They may withdraw from the local society and prefer to stay within a community of people from their home country. This group often views the host culture as unfriendly and may have trouble adjusting back to their home culture when they return. Research shows that about 60% of expatriates belong to this group.

2. Adopters: A small number of individuals fully embrace the host culture, even to the point of losing some of their original identity. These individuals are completely immersed in the new culture and may choose to live in the host country permanently. This group represents about 10% of expatriates.

3. Cosmopolitans: The majority of individuals adjust to the host culture by accepting the positive aspects of the new culture while maintaining parts of their own identity. They find a way to blend both cultures and can easily adjust when moving between countries. Around 30% of expatriates fall into this category.

How to Overcome Culture Shock

While culture shock can be challenging, there are several ways to ease the transition and minimize its effects. The following strategies can help individuals overcome culture shock:

1. Be open-minded: Learning about the new culture before moving can help you understand why certain things are done differently. This preparation can make it easier to adjust.

2. Avoid constant comparisons: It can be tempting to compare everything in the new country with your home country. Try to appreciate the new culture for what it is, rather than focusing on the differences.

3. Keep a journal: Writing about your experiences, both positive and negative, can help you process your emotions and reflect on your journey.

4. Socialize with locals: Meeting and interacting with local people can help you feel more connected to the new culture. It also allows you to learn directly from those who live there.

5. Ask for help: If you feel disoriented, it is okay to ask for advice or support from locals or fellow expatriates. Being open about your feelings can help you feel less isolated.

6. Share your cultural background: Communication is a two-way process. Sharing your own culture with others can help build understanding and reduce misunderstandings.

By applying these strategies, you can reduce the impact of culture shock and begin to enjoy your new surroundings more quickly.

Conclusion

Culture shock is a common experience when adjusting to a new culture, but it is not an insurmountable challenge. By understanding the stages of culture shock and using practical strategies to adapt, individuals can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Over time, culture shock can be overcome, and many people find themselves enriched by the experience of living in a different culture.

---

References:

Oberg, K. (1954). Culture shock: Adjustment to new cultural environments. Practical Anthropology, 7(4), 177-182.

Lysgaard, S. (1955). Adjustment in a foreign society: Norwegian Fulbright grantees visiting the United States. International Social Science Bulletin, 7(3), 45-51.