Cultural Adaptation Stages

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Honeymoon Stage

This is usually the first stage experienced after arrival to a new culture. In this stage, everything seems exciting and new. The focus is on the sense of success in being in a new culture; curiosity and interest in the novelty of the new surroundings; and an appreciation and anticipation of the opportunities to be found in the new culture. Most people feel energetic and enthusiastic during this stage.

Culture Shock Stage

In this stage, the primary focus is on the differences between one’s home culture and the new culture and the conflicts that arise due to these differences, including:having to use a foreign language

The conflicts may be with other people or internal – in terms of one’s own values, habits and preferences when contrasted with the norms and expectations of those from the new culture. Feelings that accompany the culture shock stage may include: confusion, anxiety, homesickness, anger, and the following:

Recovery Stage

This is usually the first stage experienced after arrival to a new culture. In this stage, everything seems exciting and new. The focus is on the sense of success in being in a new culture; curiosity and interest in the novelty of the new surroundings; and an appreciation and anticipation of the opportunities to be found in the new culture. Most people feel energetic and enthusiastic during this stage.

Adaptation Stage

This is usually the first stage experienced after arrival to a new culture. In this stage, everything seems exciting and new. The focus is on the sense of success in being in a new culture; curiosity and interest in the novelty of the new surroundings; and an appreciation and anticipation of the opportunities to be found in the new culture. Most people feel energetic and enthusiastic during this stage.

Reverse Culture Shock

This is usually the first stage experienced after arrival to a new culture. In this stage, everything seems exciting and new. The focus is on the sense of success in being in a new culture; curiosity and interest in the novelty of the new surroundings; and an appreciation and anticipation of the opportunities to be found in the new culture. Most people feel energetic and enthusiastic during this stage.

Tips for Successful Cultural Adaptation

Academic Skills

Social Skills

Emotional Support

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