STAGES OF CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT

STAGE ONE: Enthusiasm/Excitement

The individual:

is very positive about the culture. is overwhelmed with impressions. finds the culture exotic and is fascinated by it. is largely passive, doesn't confront the culture.

STAGE TWO: Withdrawal/Loneliness

The individual:

begins to interact with the culture. finds the behavior of the people unusual and unpredictable. begins to dislike the culture/reacts to the behavior. feels anxiety. begins to withdraw. begins to criticize the culture/people.

STAGE THREE: Re-emergence/Adjustment

The individual:

begins to understand more of the behavior of the people. Feels more comfortable living in/encountering the culture. feels isolated. regains his/her sense of humor.

STAGE FOUR: Achievement/Enthusiasm

The individual:

enjoys being in the culture. functions easily in the culture. prefers certain culture behavior to that of his/her own culture. adopts certain behaviors.

SYMPTOMS OF CULTURE SHOCK:

- homesickness - boredom - lethargy - withdrawal

- irritability - hostility toward local people - irrational anger - excessive sleeping