What is cultural shock?

Culture shock refers to the disorientation and stress experienced when someone is suddenly exposed to a new, different cultural environment. It involves encountering norms, values, behaviors, and social practices that contrast with those one is accustomed to. Here are some expert insights on culture shock:

1. Personal Space and Living Conditions:

   • Kristy Shen describes her adjustment from communal living in China to the more spacious and individualized living arrangements in Canada. She noted the shock of having much more personal space and the convenience of amenities like refrigeration and modern toilets 1.

2. Communication Challenges:

   • Erica Virvo emphasizes the importance of non-verbal communication when language barriers exist, sharing that her time in Thailand highlighted facial expressions and body language to interact with locals, making her more self-aware 2.

3. Cultural Norms:

   • Yasir Hashim found the transition to American culture from the Middle East challenging, especially regarding social gestures like eye contact. Over time, he appreciated the freedom of expression and diversity in American culture 3.
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       Cultural Shock Moments

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       Culture Shock Unpacked

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       Cultural Adjustments

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       Cultural Shocks

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       5

       Embracing Culture Shock

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4. Re-entry or Reverse Culture Shock:

   • Experiencing reverse culture shock, or the difficulty of readjusting to one's home culture after spending a significant period abroad, can be more intense than the original shock of moving to a new country 2.

5. Adapting Over Time:

   • Michele Gelfand narrates her own cultural shock when moving from New York to a small town in Illinois for graduate studies. She highlights the politeness and different social behaviors compared to what she was used to 4.

6. Embracing Differences:

   • Rolf Potts advises that embracing culture shock can enrich travel experiences. He believes patience and slowing down helps in adjusting to new cultures and understanding their nuances 5.

Understanding culture shock involves recognizing these varied experiences and preparing oneself to adapt and learn from the differences, which ultimately broadens one's perspective and appreciation for diverse cultures.