First, there is “The Excitement Stage.” This is where the newcomer experience a feeling of excitement of entering this new culture (host culture) with its ‘new life style’ and being part thereof; food, language, pace of life, shopping, interaction with the new people, etc.
The second is “The Difficulties Stage.” This is when reality sets in and everything is much more different and difficult to adapt and adopt to; it could turn out to be a crisis. The ways and behaviours of the host culture more easily irritates newcomers because it is not similar enough to their own well known, ingrained culture; language, shopping, rules and regulations, nonverbal communication, etc.
Thirdly there is “The Adjustment Stage.” This is when the newcomer has more insight into the new culture and can make the necessary adjustments and modifications to acknowledge that there are differences that will not change and have to be accepted in coping with this new environment. People and their behaviour are more predictable and life becomes less stressful and adaptation sets in.
The final stage is “The Effective Functioning Stage.” The newcomer has adapted and adopted the cultural differences, can function effectively in the new culture, experience less stress and can enjoy and appreciate the ‘new life.’
Many a time, after an extended period of time with the ‘new culture,’ returning to one’s own original culture could have the same culture shock effect, sometimes to a lesser degree.