Cultural Differences, Culture Shock, and Awareness

What is culture? There are many definitions, but here is a good one: Culture is an integrated system of learned behavior patterns that are characteristic of the members of any given society. Culture refers to the total way of life of particular groups of people. It includes everything that a group of people thinks, says, does and makes – its systems of attitudes and feelings. Culture is learned and transmitted from generation to generation. 

Culture is absorbed, culture is everywhere, it permeates everything. 

Therefore, culture consists of language, religion, values, customs, rituals, manners, ideals, art, ideas, thought patterns, and many more aspects that make up the way of life of people groups. It is important to remember that cultures are very different from one another. As you prepare for your time abroad, think about your culture and realize that it may be very different from one another. As you prepare for your time abroad, think about your culture and realize that it may be very different from the culture to which you are going. The following information will help you mentally prepare for examining cultures. 

Resource: Country Handbooks (courtesy of ISEP) 

Wherever you go, some form of culture shock is virtually inevitable. Symptoms vary from person and culture, but they can be overwhelming

Responding to Culture Shock:

• Realize it is natural. 

• Pray for wisdom, strength, flexibility, and understanding. 

• Work to cultivate an interest in something new – learning more about the country’s most popular sport, cooking native cuisine, exploring new areas. 

• Look for logical reasons behind the aspects of the host culture which seem most frustrating. 

• Make a list of the positive things you can identify about your situation. 

• Journal. 

• Do not spend lots of time feeling sorry for yourself with other people from the U.S. 

• Work at maintaining a healthy sense of humor. Be ready to laugh at yourself. Share your faux pas with friends and family members. 

• Make friends with people native to your host culture and, as you become closer, discuss the problems you’ve been having (present them in a non-critical way). 

• Keep busy. Stay active. 

• Have faith you will work your way through this even if you do nothing but wait. 

Culture, not space, is the greatest distance between two people - Jamake Highwater

Be Aware 

Do not assume that you know everything about what is happening around you. Listen and observe carefully, paying special attention to nonverbal cues, which give insight into the process of cross-cultural communication. Learn the culture and customs of the country you are in and respect them. 

Suspend Judgment 

A natural tendency is to immediately attach a “good” or “bad” label to all you  observe or experience. This can be a major stumbling block to understanding and participating in a new culture. Put aside your old assumptions and expectations. Be open to learning new things and new ways of doing things. Observe and describe, but accept others and their integrity before evaluating. For example, if you start to feel frustrated with what you may consider loose organization, remember that, though the pace may be different, your host culture may take the  time to focus on and enjoy human relationships. 

Recognize that Anxiety is Natural 

Communication and adjustment across cultures is not easy. There is often a stress factor involved in interaction between people from differing cultures. Openness, a willingness to take risks, and an ability to laugh at one’s mistakes can help you deal productively with anxiety. 

Empathize 

To empathize means to put yourself in the other person’s place and to look at the situation from his or her perspective. This is especially important when cultural differences are involved in the situation. 

Take a Break 

Have certain times of the day or week when you do not think about your studies or problems. 

Exercise Regularly 

Exercise has tremendous potential for stress relief, energy level, attitude, and  overall mental health. Take time to exercise however possible – walking around your city or neighborhood, whatever is available to you.  

Learn the Language by Using it

Language is your key to involvement in your new culture. Even if you cannot  speak proficiently, your attempts to communicate in the native language will  be appreciated. Also, listen carefully to what other people are saying. This will  also help you communicate. Remember, understanding others and making  yourself understood in a new language requires more rephrasing, repeating, and rechecking than usual. 

Be Honest 

If you are confused about something or if misunderstandings arise, it is usually best to admit your confusion rather than pretend that everything is alright. Talk things over with friends and counselors. Try to create moral support. 

Become Involved 

Show your willingness to learn about the people and culture by participating in the daily life of your community. Find a place where you feel comfortable and spend time there. Seek out opportunities to share yourself and your background with your hosts whenever possible. Often by seeking to try new things (such as foods) and experiences (such as traditional dances), you can become more actively involved in host community life. 

Deal Positively with Stress 

It is important to maintain regular life patterns. For example, eat meals at regular times, sleep regularly, and exercise regularly. When problems seem to be building up, mentally step back from them. Divide your problems up, understand each one, and work on them one at a time. When you begin to feel depressed, ask yourself: What did I expect? Why? Was my expectation reasonable? Look at the  “Cultural Adjustment Curve'' and try writing a journal entry about where you are on that curve and what it feels like. When headaches and stomachaches become a constant problem – realize that these may be signs of emotional problems, not just physical problems. If medical doctors and medications do not work, it might be time to see a counselor. OIS can help or make referrals.