Culture Shock by Maris Leivategija

CULTURE SHOCK & INTERCULTURAL LEARNING Maris Leivategija Global Partner Coordinator maris@eduactionproject.
org
INTRODUCTION
This booklet is meant to support EduAction program participants in their adjustment with their host country as well as with returning back home after the end of their experience.
Geert Hofstedes Model of Cultural Dimensions (See APPENDIX 2) Geert Hofstedes idea about culture is based on one of the largest empirical studies ever done on cultural differences. Hofstede describes culture as the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of the human group from one another. After several rounds of research, he reduced the differences in culture to four basic dimensions. All other differences, he stated, could be traced back to one or several of these four basic dimensions of culture. The four dimensions Hofstede identified were what he called power distance, individualism/ collectivism, masculinity/ femininity, and uncertainty avoidance. After some additional research, he added the dimension of time orientation.
CULTURE
Culture is about basic assumptions, values and norms that people hold.
Edward T. Halls Cultural Iceberg Model (See APPENDIX 1)
One of the most well-known models of culture is the iceberg. Its main focus is on the elements that make up culture, and on the fact, that some of these elements are very visible, whereas others are hard to discover. The idea behind this model is that culture can be pictured as an iceberg: only a very small portion of the iceberg can be seen above the water line. This top of the iceberg is supported by the much larger part of the iceberg, underneath the water line and therefore invisible. Nonetheless, this lower part of the iceberg is the powerful foundation. The iceberg model implies that the visible parts of culture are just expressions of its invisible parts. It also points out, how difficult it is at times to understand people with different cultural backgrounds because we may spot the visible parts of their iceberg, but we cannot immediately see what is the foundation that these parts rest upon.
INTERCULTURAL LEARNING
Milton J. Bennetts Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity Bennett (1993) defines intercultural sensitivity in terms of stages of personal growth. His developmental model posits a continuum of increasing sophistication in dealing with cultural difference, moving from ethnocentrism through stages of greater recognition and acceptance of difference. Interpretation of reality, or worldview, is different from one culture to the other. Developing intercultural sensitivity then means in essence to learn to recognize and deal with, the fundamental difference between cultures in perceiving the world. Intercultural learning is a process. This process demands that you know yourself, and where you come from, before being able to understand others.
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It is a challenging process as it involves very deeply rooted ideas about what is good and bad, about structuring the world and your life. In intercultural learning, what we take for granted and feel is necessary to hold on to, is put into question. Intercultural learning is a challenge to ones identity but it can become a way of living, a way of enriching ones identity at the same time, as Bennett has pointed out. Intercultural learning is an individual process, it is essentially about learning how to live together, learning how to live in a diverse world.
representative of our culture and what sides of us are universal.
Constructed Realities.
Nothing is absolute. There are many ways to read and discern reality. The thesis, that everyone constructs their own worlds, that every reality is its own construction, is one main factor in intercultural learning processes. We can perceive reality differently, even such basic dimensions as time and space. We will learn that there is no absolute truth and many things what we believed to be common sense or basic truth now turn out were just one possible solution.
ICL is an individual process of acquiring knowledge, attitudes, or behavior that is connected with the interaction of different cultures.
In dialogue with the Other.
Intercultural learning seen in this perspective is the starting point of living together peacefully.
Challenges & Learning Outcomes

Confidence and Respect.
Intercultural learning places the other at the heart of understanding. It starts through dialogue, but yet is a step further. It is challenging to perceive myself and the other as being different, and to comprehend that this difference contributes to what and how I am. Our different beings complement each other. In this understanding, the other becomes indispensable for a new discovery of the self. The respectful experience of attempting to walk in each others shoes without pretending to live what the other lives. It can enable us to experience and learn real solidarity, believing in the strength of co-operation. Intercultural learning in this context is as well a way to discover our own capacity for action.
Building up confidence is a cornerstone of intercultural learning in order to achieve the openness necessary for a mutual process. It is a prerequisite that we feel comfortable to share different viewpoints, perceptions and feelings, to arrive at acceptance and understanding.
Questions and Change
Experiencing Identity.
To understand others, we must first understand ourselves. In a multicultural environment, we have the chance to learn who we are as a person or as a
The experience of intercultural learning is one of constant change (as the world is), it is above all processoriented. Discussing culture, the tension between stagnation and change, the longing for security and balance appear constantly. We have open questions and will raise new ones. Therefore, we need to accept that there is not always an answer, but remain in constant search, accepting and welcoming change. Reflecting on it, we will need the capacity to question ourselves. We do not always know where this integration leads us.
Curiosity is important, new perceptions are desired. And we have to be aware that the construction of something new implies possibly the break down of the old such as ideas, beliefs, traditions As another outcome, we will find ourselves more comfortable with constant change which is another gained strength in our personalities.
Under the surface
Comprehensive Involvement
Intercultural learning is an experience which involves all senses and levels of learning, knowledge, emotions, behavior in an intensive way. It evokes a lot of feelings; it provokes gaps between them and maybe our reason, what we knew or get to know. The comprehension of the complexity of this process and all its implications demand a lot from us. Language as element of culture is a central aspect in intercultural communication, and at the same time limited, often a source of misunderstanding. It must thereby one tool of communication. All other signs like body language have to be equally respected. In return, we develop all aspects of intelligence.
Intercultural learning aims at very deep processes and changes of attitudes and behaviors. It means to deal a good part with the invisible forces and elements of our culture, of our inner self (see: Iceberg Model), many things beneath the water surface are unconscious and cannot be expressed clearly. This discovery implies therefore personally and in the encounter some risks, it implies tensions with which we have to deal. It is obviously not easy to accompany people in this process. On the one hand, we need the courage to go further, to challenge ourselves and others. On the other hand, we have to be very careful and respectful to peoples needs and the limits of these processes. The process of intercultural learning demands that people pass through the stages of culture shock.
CULTURE SHOCK
The term, culture shock, was introduced for the first time in 1958 to describe the anxiety produced when a person moves to a completely new environment. This term expresses the lack of direction, the feeling of not knowing what to do or how to do things in a new environment, and not knowing what is appropriate or inappropriate. Often, the way that we lived before is not accepted or considered as normal in the new place. Everything is different, for example, the language (including body language), the food, the climate, the medical system, the transport system even the banking machines are different! The symptoms of culture shock can appear and recur at different times. Although you can experience real pain from culture shock, it is also an opportunity for redefining your life objectives. It is a great opportunity for learning and acquiring new perspectives. Culture shock can stimulate personal creativity and help you develop a better understanding of yourself.
The Potential of Conflict
If we see the variety of perceptions different cultures have of time, space, social and personal relations... it appears evident that conflict is at the heart of intercultural learning and needs to be explored and expressed. At the same time, these models invite us to discuss the differences without labeling it. Consequently, we can try to find the constructive elements and chances of conflict. We need to develop conflict management skills, while considering the complexity when dealing with the notion of culture. We learn to find new solutions and develop a variety of competences, including creativity.

Stages of Culture Shock:

(See APPENDIX 3) Kalvero Oberg was one of the first writers to identify five distinct stages of culture shock. He found that all human beings experience the same feelings when they travel to or live in a different country or culture, but that some people have much stronger reactions than others.
Stage 3: Regression Phase If you don't survive stage two successfully, you may find yourself moving into stage three: the "regression phase." The word "regression" means moving backward, and in this phase of culture shock, you spend much of your time speaking your own language, watching videos from your home country, eating food from home. You may also notice that you are moving around town with a group of people who speak your own language - and you may spend most of your time together complaining about the host country/culture. Also in the regression phase, you may only remember the good things about your home country. Your homeland suddenly seems very attractive. All the difficulties that you had there are forgotten and you find yourself wondering why you ever left. You think of your home country as a wonderful place where nothing ever went wrong for you. Of course, this is not true, but an illusion created by your culture shock 'disease. Stage 4: Recovery Phase If you survive the third stage successfully (or miss it completely) you will move into the fourth stage of culture shock called the "recovery phase" or the "atease-at-last-phase." In this stage, you become more comfortable with the language and you also feel more comfortable with the customs of the host country. You can now move around without a feeling of anxiety. You accept the food, drinks, habits and customs of the host country, and you may even find yourself preferring some things in the host country to things at home. You still have problems with some of the social cues and you still dont understand everything people say, however, you are now 90% adjusted to the new culture. You start to realize that no country is truly better than another it is just that each has a different lifestyle and different ways to deal with the problems of life. Finally you have become comfortable in the new place.
Stage 1: Honeymoon Phase During the first few days of your stay in a new country, everything usually goes fairly smoothly. You are excited about being in a new place, where there are new sights and sounds, new smells and tastes. You may have some problems, but usually you accept them as just part of the newness. Unfortunately, this euphoric honeymoon phase can come to an end fairly soon, as you start dealing with day to day problems, e.g. getting your favorite foods. It may feel like people no longer care about your problems. You might even start to think that the people in the host country don't like foreigners.
Stage 2: Rejection Phase You may begin to feel aggressive and start to complain about the host culture/country. However, it is important to recognize that these feelings are real and can become serious. This phase is a kind of crisis in the 'disease' of culture shock. It is called the "rejection" phase because it is at this point that you start to reject the host country, complaining about, and noticing only, the bad things that bother you. At this stage you either get stronger and stay, or get weaker and go home (physically, or more often - just mentally).

Stage 5: Reverse Culture Shock Much later, you may find yourself entering the fifth phase of culture shock. This is called "reverse culture shock" or "return culture shock" and occurs when you return home. You have been away for a long time, becoming comfortable with the habits and customs of a new lifestyle and you find that you are no longer completely comfortable in your home country. Many things may have changed while you were away and surprise! surprise! it may take a little while to become at ease with the cues and signs and symbols of your home culture.
In extreme cases, people may develop anxiety, panic disorder, paranoia, or phobias. Culture shock can be very difficult and distressing. There is a risk of sickness or emotional problems in many of the phases of culture shock. Remember to be kind to yourself all the time that you are overseas, and when you get home, give yourself time to adjust. Be your own best friend. Seek help if you think you need it. It is often enough just to know that others have been through it and know how you are feeling!
Symptoms of Culture Shock:

Culture shock can appear in different forms, but most commonly you will find yourself:
How to prepare for a smoother transition?

Read about your host country, its culture, people and values before you leave home. The better you know the country before arriving, the less chocking things you will find. Dont be fixated on keeping in constant contact with the people back home. You cant live two lives. Instead, engage yourself in as many local activities as possible. Bring an object from home with you. It will remind you that you belong somewhere, when you dont yet feel like you fit in perfectly. Be open minded and curious. Try to learn new things every day and keep talking to people. Be friendly, open and nice. Dont be judgmental of local customs. Remember that no culture is superior to the others. Keep a journal of your feelings. This will make you reflect on your growth. Pretty soon you will notice that you dont need it as much anymore.
Eating more than usual (gaining weight) or eating less than usual (losing weight) Having an increased need for hygiene Homesick, calling home or talking to your friends back home more than usual Being hostile, irritability , complaining about the host culture/country Stereotyping host nationals Withdrawal, avoiding meeting people Boredom Increased need for sleep Glazed stare, getting stuck on one thing Physiological stress symptoms (getting sick easily, head aches, pains..etc)
PS! Any health issues you may have had prior to going abroad may get more severe as you experience the effects of culture shock.

REVERSE CULTURE SHOCK

A surprising number of people do get thrown by the effects of re-entry, especially after any long, difficult, or very meaningful experience abroad. It may seem even more of an issue than the culture shock you experienced, or didnt experience when you first went abroad. When you go youre geared up for change, when you come back you are expecting to be familiar with everything but you may have changed! Reverse Culture Shock is a term used to describe the feelings (of surprise, disorientation, confusion, etc.) experienced when people return to their home country and find they do not fit in as they used to. This may be due to a change in perspective, a decrease in excitement, an appreciation for and of different customs, or because during the travels the home country was idealized.
are not more sun-tanned. They even forget which country you have been living in and for reasons of ignorance or embarrassment hardly ask any questions about the real things you have been doing. They seem more interested in their latest pair of Adidas or Reeboks than in the concerns of the poor. Your values have changed. You may look at life more deeply. At the same time, most of the people you used to hang out with, have stayed the same and keep pursuing things that you no longer care about.
How to deal with Reverse Culture Shock?

RECOGNISE - and dont deny the feelings you have. Choose a good friend with whom you can really share your feelings. Rather than being shocked he/she may be relieved you are human!
What does Reverse Culture Shock look like?

When you first arrive home, are met at the airport, and start to recount exciting experiences as the hero, or tramp returning home, you probably will feel pretty good. But after a while this gradually seems to change. For no apparent reason you start feeling listless, anxious or depressed; you feel angry at the materialism, decadence and pettiness of peoples lives; you feel confused about yourself and about your future. Apart from experiencing sadness about what you have left behind, you may be shocked by what you find at home: the stifling materialism, some of the behavior patterns of your society might seem stupid, unnecessary or disrespectful. You have moved on in your life and so have your friends - but in a different direction. Even your best buddies who should know better ask banal questions about why you
FRIENDS - keep in touch with your overseas friends and any projects youve been involved with. Join any group where others who have returned meet to discuss, pray, or raise support for people and projects you are familiar with. Dont cling on to them all the time just to relive the past. Make new friends and trust that the future could be equally exciting and challenging
COMING TO TERMS WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE This may take days, weeks, even months depending on your personality as well as how long and how deeply you were involved overseas. Let yourself have time for your thoughts and memories to go round and round in your head so what you experienced becomes part of you. Then you can get on with your life now without losing the impact of your experiences overseas. You will learn the knack of accepting the good, avoiding the bad and recognizing what you can usefully do to help bring change within the limits of your gifts and energies.
JOIN A SOCIAL GROUP - where you will feel comfortable and where you have a shared interest. It may be a language course, an evening class or a club. Use your overseas experience to get you involved in a new challenge! ENJOY A GOOD BREAK AND HAVE A CHECK-UP spend time with your family and friends and ensure you have a check-up if you feel under the weather. You may be harboring some bugs which require treatment. KNOW WHEN TO SHOUT - if your feelings of doom and gloom persist unduly, are very severe or if your appetite and sleep pattern become markedly disturbed, dont hesitate to see someone who can help.
This journey is hard, but, sharing with you what I know can make you appreciate it. And perhaps help you develop yourself even more! Expand your comfort zone!
Sincerely,
WHY ALL THIS?

If I could put into words the real meaning of what intercultural experience and passing through culture shocks has for me, I would. But the outcomes are so deep that they have changed who I thought I am and what I am capable of. Its as simple as finding a solution to any problem that occurs, as feeling relaxed and comfortable with many things. But its also complex, it has given me the opportunity to know myself, to value everything that I am and everything that I want to be. Once I found myself, I found meaning to why I exist. Ever since then, I have learned to appreciate everything and everyone around me. Ive found happiness in myself. And this gives me an opportunity to create happiness in others.
Maris Leivategija EduAction Global Partner Coordiantor

APPENDIX 1 - THE ICEBERG MODEL



APPENDIX 2


APPENDIX 3 STAGES OF CULTURE SHOCK


Culture Shock by Maris Leivategija

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CULTURE SHOCK & INTERCULTURAL LEARNING Maris Leivategija Global Partner Coordinator maris@eduactionproject.

Edward T. Halls Cultural Iceberg Model (See APPENDIX 1)

EduAction Global Project

representative of our culture and what sides of us are universal.

In dialogue with the Other.

Challenges & Learning Outcomes

Questions and Change

Under the surface

The Potential of Conflict

EduAction Global Project

Stages of Culture Shock:

EduAction Global Project

Symptoms of Culture Shock:

How to prepare for a smoother transition?

EduAction Global Project

REVERSE CULTURE SHOCK

How to deal with Reverse Culture Shock?

What does Reverse Culture Shock look like?

WHY ALL THIS?

Maris Leivategija EduAction Global Partner Coordiantor

EduAction Global Project

APPENDIX 1 - THE ICEBERG MODEL

EduAction Global Project

EduAction Global Project

EduAction Global Project

EduAction Global Project

EduAction Global Project

APPENDIX 3 STAGES OF CULTURE SHOCK

EduAction Global Project

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