Culture Shock

“Culture shock” is the term used to describe the reactions to the feelings of disorientation and discomfort individuals experience when they are trying to assimilate to a new culture. Experts have suggested that culture shock is like a disease, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as:

• Homesickness
• Boredom, withdrawal, depression, loneliness, confusion
• Need for excessive sleeping
• Crying unexpectedly
• Compulsive eating or drinking
• Irritability over small things
• Exaggerated cleanliness (e.g., constantly washing hands)
• Family tension and conflict
• Stereotyping of host nationals
• Hostility toward host nationals
• Loss of ability to work/study effectively; difficulty concentrating
• Physical symptoms (headaches, upset stomach)

Individuals experience culture shock to varying degrees—or occassionally not at all. However, it usually takes time to adjust to a new culture. Although the amount of time it takes to adjust and the phases of adjustment may differ, there are usually several typical distinct phases. Here is what you can do to help you deal with culture shock:

• Learn as much as possible about the host country.
• Look for logical reasons behind everything that seems strange, confusing, irritating.
• Resist making jokes or negative comments about host nationals and host culture.
• Identify a host national (roommate, classmate, peer mentor, etc.) you can talk to about specific situations and about your feelings related to them.
• Have faith in the positive outcome of your experience.

Information on Cutural Adjustment, thanks to Iowa State University Study Abroad Center. More information on Cutural Adjustment can be found in the Iowa State University Study Abroad Center's Study Abroad Student Handbook.