Culture shock refers to the emotionally or psychologically challenging part of the experience of leaving one’s culture behind to move to a different culture. Overview As international students leave their home, it is possible that among the many positive things that they will encounter as they relocate in another culture, there will also be some unexpected or even distressing elements that are part of this experience. For example, students who come from warmer climates may find it difficult to adjust to harsh and cold weather. Food is another familiar cue that reminds us of the environment that we are part of. For some, unfamiliar food and tastes, together with the difficulty to find cooking ingredients that might be readily available at home, can be a stressful experience. Other noticeable differences may encompass communication, dress, religion, and language. Thus, culture shock refers to the emotions that surround these unfamiliar experiences. These emotions can include stress as a result of the effort that is needed to make these adjustments, a sensation of loss in terms of friends, status, and all things familiar, a sense of surprise and uneasiness when one is confronted with cultural differences, or feelings of inadequacy as a result of struggling to adapt to the new environment (Furnham, 2010). Although these might be difficult feelings to process, it is important to remember that culture shock goes hand in hand with the process of cultural learning. Through the familiarization that happens with time and experience, international students gradually become experts in recognising cultural differences and are able to function in a positive and efficient manner in different cultural contexts. Theoretical perspectives Theoretical Perspective Culture shock refers to the psychological discomfort that is frequently experienced by people who are immersed in new social environments as a result of their social and physical participation in a novel and unfamiliar cultural setting. According to Oberg (1960), who first coined the term, there are different phases to the process of culture shock. At the first stage, one might have a curious and positive attitude towards the different culture. Reality with its many unfamiliar elements, however, may start to cause challenges and discomfort rather than positive emotions. Everyday mistakes and cultural misunderstandings can then lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and lack of confidence in oneself. A person during this phase may withdraw from social activities and become more isolated. Studying in a foreign cultural setting may be uncomfortable and demanding, eventually resulting in fatigue and even poor health, due to the physical and cognitive weariness one encounters. During this phase, there may even be negative emotions towards the members of the receiving community. Lastly, through the process of cultural learning and adjustment, international students begin to feel comfortable in the new culture and regain their confidence and positivity. References Furnham, A. (2010). Culture shock: Literature review, personal statement and relevance for the South Pacific. Journal of Pacific Rim Psychology, 4(2), 87-94. Oberg, K. (1960). Cultural shock: Adjustment to new cultural environments. Practical anthropology, (4), 177-182. Context for Scholars By moving between different cultural spaces and systems, Mastercard Foundation scholars might also become aware of the different availability of things between cultures, including structures and objects with the capacity to improve the standard of living. This realisation of the existence of fundamental differences between systems of social provision, welfare, but also privilege between global north and global south can lead to negative emotions. However, despite the negative emotions that can be associated with this process, the realisation of different forms of injustice between cultural contexts can also act as an incentive that may inspire Mastercard Foundation scholars to become agents of change in their communities. Practical suggestions Understand that adjusting takes time. It is natural for students to experience culture shock and homesickness during the first few weeks and months. Recognise that this is a process. You will be fascinated and interested by cultural differences, but at other times you might also feel disappointed or confused. Focus on the positive. Although negative emotions might arise when we become aware of the differences that exist between systems of welfare and quality of life, these can also act as a motivation that can lead Mastercard Foundation scholars’ to make a positive impact in their communities. Maintain an open mind. Consider things from different angles. If a fellow student or university staff behaves differently than you would anticipate, consider how their history and culture impact their behaviour. Get to know students from different backgrounds. This can expose you to a wide range of cultures and perspectives. Mastercard Foundation scholars’ experiences Listen to the Scholars’ Podcast: Adapting Tastebuds. We share our individual and unique experiences in adjusting to food and diet in new environments. Here each scholar shares how they became more aware of their dietary needs as well as how important it was for them to take control of their food by adjusting their tastebuds and customising their meals. Seeing all the differences between where you are now and where you have been and how that makes your life better or worse or whatever it is. It has just made me remember my very first experience living in a place that is different from home and going through those motions… The awareness that indeed I'm actually experiencing culture shock. That was really profound to me. Mastercard scholar Useful links How to navigate culture shock Facing culture shock Navigating culture shock This article was published on 2024-06-24
