Are you an international student abroad and feeling a bit concerned by the new surroundings? Don’t worry; it’s perfectly normal to experience culture shock when adjusting to life in a different country. Moving to a new country with different cultures, languages, and people and adjusting is not at all easy. In this blog, we will be highlighting real-life examples of culture shock that will help you overcome it.
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What is Culture Shock?
Culture shock is a feeling of disorientation or discomfort when you move from one country to another country. If you are an international student and fear culture shock, then no worries, as it is something faced by everyone. The only difference is some people overcome it easily and in less time, while some of them take a little more time to overcome it.
Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation and uncertainty that often accompanies moving to a new country. It happens when you encounter different customs, languages, food, weather, and social norms than what you’re used to. There are various stages of culture shock:
- The honeymoon phase where everything seems to be exciting and worth exploring.
- The Negotiation stage is where when you become familiar with the realities around you that frustrate you.
- Third is the adjustment stage where you start adjusting and accepting the realities.
- Fourth is the adaptation stage where you are very close to getting out of the culture shock and start adapting to the surroundings as they are.
Also Read: Want to know more about the Culture of the different countries then refer to A Comprehensive Guide to American Culture Etiquette: Ease Your Academic Life!
Examples of Culture Shock
It is not necessary that all the people who are moving abroad feel the culture shock in the same manner. Let us discuss a few examples of culture shock irrespective of the country you are moving to, there are chances that you may face these cultural shocks.
Greetings and Gestures
In each country, people have their own ways of greeting each other. In some countries, a kiss on the cheek to strike up a conversation is normal, while in other countries even shaking hands is restricted to known people only.
Similarly, a hug is a customary way of greeting friends and loved ones, while it may look awkward in other countries. International students might find themselves unsure of how to greet or strike conversation upon meeting.
Food and Dining Etiquette
Food is known as the window to any culture which actually provides a glance at it. For instance, The food and dining etiquette in Germany may differ from the British table etiquette. International students may find themselves faced with unfamiliar dishes, exotic spices, and dining customs that differ greatly from what they’re used to. From using chopsticks to eating with hands in their style is a tough task.
Language Barrier
Language is more than just words; it’s a reflection of cultural nuances and social dynamics. International students may face problems in understanding the language of the natives, as they might be quite fast and use short sentences as used in their country.
For instance, if we say I am moving to a country where English is the official language and I can communicate well in the English language. But here also students may find it difficult to understand the tone, accent, or sometimes meaning.
Just like how Australian etiquette and culture are different from American etiquette and culture, so are the English of America and Australia. This is just an example of culture shock in the form of the language barrier, there are many such.
Time and Punctuality
Time and Punctuality is something that is preferred by everyone, whatever the situation may be. But there are countries where getting late up to 5-7 minutes is quite okay but some countries mind being late even for a minute. International students may encounter cultural differences in the perception of time management, deadlines, and scheduling, which can impact their daily routines and academic commitments.
Personal Space and Privacy
Maintaining personal space and privacy is something that is followed by every individual but it may have certain limitations and boundaries which may vary. International students may find themselves stuck in various situations and different expectations when it comes to physical space, sharing personal information, and respecting individual privacy. Be sure to check out the basic etiquette of the country you are moving to as this is something that can annoy anyone easily.
Recommended Read: Read out our blog about the Mind-blowing Examples of Culture Shock in Japan!
How to Overcome Culture Shock?
It is not tough to overcome culture shock. There are several ways to cope with it easily, as it is a normal experience for almost everyone. Here are some tips to overcome culture shock easily.
- Seek out students or locals who can offer support and friendship.
- Approach new experiences with curiosity and an open heart.
- Join clubs, attend cultural events, and be participative.
- Try to personalise your new home with homely feelings.
- Accept invitations to events and participate in cultural events.
- Find something you love to do in your new home.
- Try to get engaged in things as much as you can.
- Take time to explore your new city or town.
- Visit local landmarks and try different cuisines.
- Keep in touch with family and friends back home.
- Take care of your physical and emotional well-being.
- Get enough rest, eat healthily, and exercise regularly.
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Also Read: Want to more about Europe then refer to Spanish Adventures: Travelling to Spain from UK!
FAQs on Examples of Culture Shock
Culture shock refers to the feeling of disorientation, confusion, and anxiety that individuals experience when they encounter unfamiliar cultural norms, customs, and social practices in a new environment.
Culture shock is typically divided into four stages: the honeymoon phase (initial excitement), the negotiation phase (anxiety and frustration), the adjustment phase (adaptation to new cultural norms), and the adaptation phase (comfort and familiarity with the new culture).
The best example of culture shock is when a person moves to a new country and feels disoriented by unfamiliar customs, language barriers, and social norms, leading to feelings of confusion and loneliness.
The duration of culture shock varies from person to person and depends on factors such as cultural adaptability, and the level of support available. While some individuals may overcome culture shock relatively quickly, others may experience its effects for an extended period.
Coping with culture shock involves adopting strategies such as maintaining an open mind, seeking social support from fellow international students or locals, learning about the host culture through cultural activities, and practising self-care techniques such as meditation and relaxation exercises.
Common symptoms of culture shock include feelings of loneliness and isolation, irritability and frustration, homesickness, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and a sense of disconnection from one’s own identity.
Yes, culture shock can affect individuals regardless of their prior travel experiences. Each new cultural environment presents unique challenges and opportunities for adaptation, regardless of one’s previous exposure to diverse cultures.
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