Culture Shock
Expats all over the world may experience the unpleasant phenomenon of ‘culture shock’. This is not a sudden fright or a particularly bad moment caused by the unknown culture of a new country, but rather a phase in the process… read more >
Culture ShockExpats all over the world may experience the unpleasant phenomenon of ‘culture shock’. This is not a sudden fright or a particularly bad moment caused by the unknown culture of a new country, but rather a phase in the process of adjustment. It can be compared to the estrangement one may feel after moving to another city, switching jobs or otherwise experiencing a drastic change in life-style. The absence of familiar people, routines and rituals requires us to make conscious choices regarding otherwise routine issues. Some researchers state that at the basis of culture shock lies a constant state of alertness, producing heightened adrenaline levels. Culture shock usually causes us to regard our new environment with a certain level of negativity. After an energetic and positive start in the new surroundings, with much to arrange for the new house and a time-consuming exploration of the local situation, a new daily routine develops. With it, unfortunately, may come the awareness of the absence of people and things from home. Though Skyping may make it easier by allowing the expat to remain in touch with loved ones, local circumstances, and matters such as shopping and recreation remain different. The expat has to cope with a new language and mentality, different day and week rhythms, other work attitudes, different ideas on life, etcetera. For the working expat who has been sent here by his employer, the general outline of work may remain the same and provide some comfort, however, the ‘trailing spouse’ may not be able or even permitted to do meaningful work in the new country. The absence of new friends and contacts often causes a sense of loneliness or even uselessness, certainly during the hours when the children are off to school. As even shopping can be a different experience, with… read more >