A Fish Out of Water
Most people who study, live, or work abroad get culture shock. This is a period of cultural adjustment. It involves getting used to the food and language as well as other differences. Adjusting to a new culture can be difficult and frustrating. Some people get depressed and very homesick. These are all normal reactions.
The term culture shock was first used by writer Kalervo Oberg in 1954. He saw that everyone has similar feelings when they are in a different country or culture. Oberg identified five stages of culture shock.
1. The Honeymoon Phase
This period lasts six months or longer. The newcomer is excited about the new place. The person likes the new lifestyle. There are some problems, but the person usually accepts them. These are part of the adjustment to another country. People are generally helpful to the newcomer. The newcomer feels welcome.
2. Emptiness or Rejection Phase
The newcomer has to deal with the usual problems such as housing, transportation, and shopping (such as not finding favorite foods). Not being able to communicate fluently in the local language is a problem. The local people may not understand the problem. They don't think it's a big deal. At this point, the newcomer starts to complain about, maybe even reject, the new country.
3. The Conformist Phase
The newcomer begins to understand the new culture. The culture's ideals and values bring new feelings of pleasure. The newcomer learns to understand the cultural differences. The crisis is over. However, the adjustment is not complete.
4. Assimilation Phase or Complete Adjustment
The person accepts the food, habits, and customs of the new country. The person may find some things better than back home. The newcomer is adjusted and feels comfortable in the new place. On returning home, the person will miss the country and new friends. The traveler will have wonderful memories forever.
5. Reverse Culture Shock
This is when the person comes back to the home country. The person may have been away from home for a long time. He or she gets a “reentry shock.” Many things may have changed. It will take time to get used to home again