my experience with culture shock essay

Essays About Culture Shock: Top 5 Examples and 7 Prompts

Writing essays about culture shock promotes awareness, improves character, and fosters meaningful interactions; reading our top examples and prompts to get started.

Two things stood out when I visited Thailand: the beautiful tourist destinations and the country’s food. I enjoyed the meals and snacks, especially  Roti Sai Mai . It’s a sweet candy floss rolled into a salted roti sheet. My peers, however, liked eating Nhon Mhai or silkworms sprinkled with pepper and soy. I knew the country had exotic foods, but it still shocked me. 

Culture shock happens when one is unfamiliar with the environment and culture of a place they’re visiting. People who usually experience this are international students, migrant families, and first-time travelers like myself. An effective way to promote awareness of its  symptoms and stages  is through writing essays about the subject.

5 Essay Examples

• 1. What Is the Culture Shock? By Anonymous on EduBirdie.Com
• 2. Long Essay on Culture Shock by Prasanna
• 3. Cultural Shock and Adaptation by Anonymous on GradesFixer.Com
• 4. Culture Shock — What Is It by Anonymous on IntervarsityChicago.Org
• 5. My Experience of Culture Shock in the United States by Anonymous on GradesFixer.Com

1. Culture Shock: Defined

2. symptoms of culture shock, 3. the phases of culture shock, 4. how to overcome culture shock, 5. factors and effects of culture shock, 6. is culture shock normal, 7. my personal experience of culture shock, 1. what is the culture shock  by anonymous on edubirdie.com.

“Culture shock is the result of national culture. Everyone has a culture which he or she grows, works, and lives. Because of that difference, people are having trouble to adapt new culture.”

In this essay, the author uses students studying abroad as an example to explain culture shock. They mention that culture shock is inevitable even if students prepare themselves for the problems they may face when moving to another country. As a result, students become unfocused and stressed and develop psychological problems.

According to the writer, culture shock is an insurmountable problem, but there are ways to reduce its impact, especially on students. It includes orientation programs from universities, research about the new culture they will encounter, and human interaction. You might be interested in these essays about city life .

2. Long Essay on Culture Shock  by Prasanna

“Traveling to a foreign country is one of the best ways to step outside your monotonous life. The fear of facing unfamiliar situations holds many people from stepping out of their comfort zone. When you reach a new country, you will have the opportunity to see and experience things that you were longing for, have fun and enjoy the atmosphere that you can’t do in your home country.”

Prasanna describes culture shock’s many benefits that significantly improve one’s life. For example, it assists in breaking routines so one can adapt to others’ customs. It leads to individuals being more flexible and expanding their horizons. 

Culture shock also helps build self-confidence and overcome challenges. People make new friends and create new experiences by exposing themselves to unfamiliar cultures, places, and groups. The new knowledge about a foreign place dramatically influences one’s personality and promotes self-growth. Ultimately, Prasanna believes that culture shock is difficult at first, but one becomes comfortable with the changes around them as the day goes by.

Looking for more? Check out these essays about globalization .

3. Cultural Shock and Adaptation  by Anonymous on GradesFixer.Com

“… The differences of how people live, their beliefs, values are rather obvious. We not only find no evidence of convergence – we actually find that the gap between the value system of rich and poor countries have been growing, not shrinking, during the past 20 years.”

This essay contains various quotes from people knowledgeable about culture shock, such as Michael Minkov, the author of  “Cultural Differences in a Globalizing World.”  The writer says that traveling abroad is more than just enjoying the sights, festivities, and food. It’s about learning and understanding how its people live — the travelers’ difficulties in understanding these lead to culture shock. Since this is a broad and sensitive topic, the author believes that people should learn about the culture and its differences to know its causes and develop effective methods to overcome them.

4. Culture Shock — What Is It  by Anonymous on IntervarsityChicago.Org

“Culture Shock is the disorientation and change that is experienced after an international relocation… You will feel as if you are in the wrong place; everything will appear abnormal and you will often find things hard to comprehend.”

The author defines culture shock as mental confusion brought on by moving to a foreign country, locale, school, and workplace. Various factors contribute to culture shock, and its effects differ from one person to another. For students and employees, culture shock makes them unproductive and tired. 

The essay further explains that the usual cause of culture shock is homesickness. People feel various indicators like insomnia, anger issues, irritation, and many others. Their advice to readers dealing with culture shock is to look for its causes to handle it properly to avoid adverse effects. You might also be interested in these essays about culture shock .

5. My Experience of Culture Shock in the United States  by Anonymous on GradesFixer.Com

“Many of the customs of the new culture may seem odd or uncomfortably different from those of your home country. Being in a new and unfamiliar place can be challenging even for the experienced traveler, and it is normal to feel frustrated and isolated.”

Being from Kazakhstan and using a Hollywood movie as a basis for American life, the author has no idea that pursuing their dream of living in The Land of the Free will give them culture shock. The writer discusses three significant differences between their home country and America.

First, compared to their native land, where people only befriend those they trust, Americans are approachable and make easy friends with strangers. Second, privacy and personal space are nonexistent in America. Lastly, Americans’ ideas of equality spill into how they talk and dress.

7 Prompts for Essays About Culture Shock

Use this prompt to discuss culture shock by talking about its literal meaning, experts’ views, and your idea of it. Then, pick what’s consistent across these varying explanations to create a comprehensive definition of culture shock. Add relevant citations from reliable sources to strengthen your statements and make the essay more informative. 

If you find this topic complex, simplify it and write a five-paragraph essay instead.

Some common symptoms of culture shock are feeling isolated, bored, and irritated. However, it differs in the stage, cause, or degree of culture shock a person has. For this prompt, briefly discuss the definition of culture shock and then identify its symptoms. Expound on each stage’s indicators and how long a person typically goes through these symptoms. The essay must also explain how these signs differ from one individual to another.

There are  four stages of culture shock : honeymoon, frustration, adjustment, and acceptance. Explain each stage and focus on what causes an individual to transition from one phase to the next. Add how long each stage lasts and what feelings are involved. Include examples so readers can better understand each stage.

Certain situations do not allow an individual to return to a familiar environment to get rid of culture shock. In this prompt, center your essay on ways to help people cope with culture shock. Search for effective ways to adapt to the changes, such as developing new hobbies and making friends in the new place. 

Climate, language, social roles, values, and unspoken rules are some factors that contribute to culture shock. For this prompt, briefly explain culture shock and list its common causes to help the reader verify if they’re experiencing this phenomenon. Then, discuss how these factors lead to culture shock by offering examples and include some of its positive and negative effects.

To write this prompt, you need to find reliable references such as demographic statistics to determine the number of people experiencing culture shock worldwide. After gathering data, analyze and discuss your findings. 

Remember to answer the question prompt and summarize your conclusions at the end of your essay. Here’s an example statement: Based on research , 85% of international students experience culture shock, and their top problem is adjusting to the country’s language.

Share a story of your travel or move to another location where you experienced culture shock. Write about the reason for your transfer and describe where you came from versus where you moved to. Include how long you stayed in the place and what culture shock symptoms you felt. Add how this experience affected you and your expectations whenever you visit a new location. If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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My Experience with Culture Shock in the United States

This essay about navigating culture shock in the United States explores the challenges and revelations faced by the author upon arrival in a new land. From linguistic barriers to social norms and culinary differences, the narrative illustrates the complexities of adapting to a diverse and vibrant society. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the essay highlights the journey towards acceptance and appreciation for the kaleidoscope of cultures that shape American society.

How it works

Arriving in the United States, I felt like an explorer venturing into a vibrant new world, brimming with possibilities and challenges. Every corner I turned, every interaction I had, seemed to be a revelation, a testament to the rich tapestry of cultures that converged in this melting pot of a nation. Here’s my tale of navigating the maze of culture shock in the land of opportunity.

Stepping off the plane, I was immediately struck by the cacophony of sounds and sights that surrounded me – the honking of horns, the towering skyscrapers, the kaleidoscope of faces from every corner of the globe.

It was a sensory overload, a whirlwind of excitement and apprehension that left me feeling exhilarated yet disoriented.

The first hurdle I encountered was the language barrier. Despite my proficiency in English, the American accent and colloquialisms threw me off guard. Simple conversations became labyrinthine puzzles, with each word and phrase a potential landmine of misunderstanding. I found myself nodding along with a smile plastered on my face, hoping no one would notice the confusion swirling in my mind.

But beyond the linguistic challenges, there were deeper cultural nuances that I struggled to grasp. The concept of personal space, for instance, was a revelation to me. In my home country, physical proximity was a sign of intimacy and warmth, whereas in America, it was an invisible boundary that must not be crossed. I had to learn to navigate this unspoken divide with finesse, lest I unwittingly invade someone’s personal bubble.

Then there were the social norms and customs that seemed alien to me. The emphasis on individualism, for example, was a stark departure from the collectivist mindset I was accustomed to. In my culture, decisions are often made with the community in mind, whereas in America, personal ambition and achievement reign supreme. It was a paradigm shift that forced me to reassess my own values and priorities.

Food, too, presented its own set of challenges. Coming from a country where rice and spices are the cornerstones of every meal, I was taken aback by the ubiquity of fast food joints and processed snacks that seemed to dominate the American culinary landscape. The portions were gargantuan, the flavors often too sweet or too salty for my palate. I yearned for the comforting taste of home-cooked meals, but found solace in the diverse array of international cuisine that the melting pot of America had to offer.

Despite the hurdles, there were moments of profound connection and understanding that transcended cultural barriers. I recall attending my first Thanksgiving dinner with a group of friends, and being moved by the sense of warmth and camaraderie that filled the room. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we came together to share a meal and express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. It was a poignant reminder that, beneath our cultural differences, we are all united by our shared humanity.

As time passed, I began to acclimate to my new surroundings. I made friends who patiently explained the intricacies of American life, who laughed with me as I stumbled through unfamiliar customs and traditions. I embraced the spirit of adventure, immersing myself in new experiences and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. And slowly but surely, the shock gave way to acceptance, and eventually, to appreciation for the kaleidoscope of cultures that make up the fabric of American society.

My journey through culture shock in the United States was a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, twists and turns. It challenged me to confront my own biases and assumptions, and to approach the world with an open mind and heart. And in the end, it transformed me into a more culturally aware and empathetic individual, capable of bridging the divides that separate us and celebrating the diversity that enriches our lives.

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• Global Guide
• Culture Shock

Culture Shock - A Personal Story

But, even though all exchange students participated in a one-day preparatory meeting, no kind of preparation could have avoided the inevitable culture shock I was experiencing - and I am glad it didn’t! Many people confuse the term culture shock with the phase of feeling discomfort, confusion, frustration and homesickness before adjusting to a foreign culture. However, culture shock is so much more!

The Honeymoon Phase

It also includes those first weeks or months of the so-called “honeymoon phase” where you are super happy to be in that other culture and everything you experience, from cultural aspects such as ways of living and interacting with others to clothes, music, and food, seems exotic, new and exciting. You are, so-to-speak, wearing your pink-coloured culture glasses and cozily float on a cultural cloud nine!

However, as I was going to experience soon enough this feeling didn’t last forever. After about two months, things started to feel odd. Differences became more apparent. I started missing my friends and family more and more. Frustrating thoughts increasingly populated my head: “Nobody really understand me, my English is not good enough. I wish people would just be able to speak German for one day! Why is it so impossible to find proper bread (‘proper’ in my opinion referring to bread from Germany)? I wish public transportation would work the same way as at home! And so on.

The Negotiation Phase

These thoughts were of course highly unproductive and unhelpful. However, these are part of the process and herald the “negotiation phase”. Feelings of anxiety would creep up on me from nowhere! Homesickness would dominate most evenings. Of course it was not like this all the time. Initial ‘honeymoon’ feelings of excitement and exhilaration would take turns with feelings of disorientation and frustration. Phases are not clearly marked because each phase overlaps with the next one and sometimes you feel like you take two steps forward and one back.

The Adjustment Phase

Over the next few months, though, feelings of adjustment and belonging more and more superseded those feelings of displacement and homesickness. I developed my own little routine, learned to adapt to stress through various techniques, and made many new friends. I had slowly and unknowingly entered the “adjustment phase”. I had learned what to expect in most situations, had adapted my own behavior and learned to appreciate new ways of thinking and attitudes. My English had improved dramatically - not only my vocabulary had expanded significantly but I also thought and dreamt exclusively in English! During those months I had developed a very interesting sleeping pattern where I would sleep approx. 14 hours a day straight. My mind needed time to recover after experiencing so many challenges throughout the day - speaking English, dressing differently, attending class at High School, making new friends, observing and processing differences, adjusting my own behavior, analyzing the meaning of what people say and translating it into something I could understand and appropriately respond to etc.

The Mastery Phase

Things started to make sense and I understood Australian culture better and better (or at least the culture lived at my host family and High School in Sydney)! That was a major breakthrough for me personally. Every day I felt more and more comfortable with my new home. I adopted many new traits while also keeping earlier ones from my home country. I would often refer to myself as ‘having a second nationality’. This process which occurred over my last few months abroad is called the “mastery phase”. My happiest moment was when my dear friend one day remarked during a conversation: ‘You are Australian now, Jude! You sound just like us!’ She knew what she was talking about, had she not seen me transform from a silent timid German who could hardly follow a conversation to an almost accent-free bicultural Australian/German?

I want to point out that the effects of culture shock are different for everyone and can result in different behaviors and feelings. The timing of the different phases also varies a lot from person to person. One thing’s for sure though: Culture shock is inevitable and acceptance is the first step towards adjusting better to a foreign culture.

Dealing with Culture Shock

Here is my 5 cents on what has helped me deal better with culture shock: Try to really put yourself out there and make friends! Talk, even when you make mistakes! Develop a routine! Think about how you dealt with stress at home and apply it in the new culture: Yoga, sports, going for a walk, talking to a dear friend? Try to be positive and see the good aspect in everything. Negative thinking is a vicious circle and can quickly pull you down. Also, laugh about yourself or whatever is frustrating you - humour helps us make light of a situation. Always remember - what can I learn from this? Don’t try to negate the positive aspects of the other culture. Often there is a valid reason behind why things are done that way. Realizing that doesn’t mean you have to give up all you are and believe in! It merely widens your horizon and helps you negotiate between different cultures. And I believe that if you manage to acquire those intercultural skills during a culture shock, the previous feelings of disconnection and anxiety are well worth it. Maybe if we all did an exchange of some sort we would live in a more understanding, peaceful world.

The best thing for me personally is that I am still in touch with my host family that I stayed with now ten years ago! I visited them again with my Mum, and they visited me in in Europe and will come again soon to visit me in Buenos Aires where I currently live! I am very grateful for their friendship and hospitality while I went through culture shock - it certainly can’t have been easy! Their own unlimited generousness has been a great role model to me and has convinced me to host my own exchange student when I am older.

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Essay on Culture Shock

Culture shock is defined by the University of Florida Interactive Media Lab as “the uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty that many people experience when immersed in unfamiliar surroundings where they are unsure of the acceptable norms of behavior, or what to expect from other people.” This phenomenon can occur when traveling or moving to a new city, state, or country. While it’s not something that can easily be avoided, being prepared and knowing what to expect can make the experience one that is both beneficial and not life shattering.

Travelers to new and foreign places are most likely to experience culture shock as their surroundings can change dramatically from what they’re used to at home. However, other populations can also suffer from culture shock. That includes students who have recently moved away to attend college or those who relocate for their job.

There is a variety of signs that a person may be suffering from culture shock. They include losing the ability to pick up on the social and language cues of the people in their new environment as well as a difference in the values and morals that one finds important and valuable. Other things that one might experience include feelings of depression, anxiety, fear or anger. Feeling disoriented is also to be expected. Losing a feeling of satisfaction with life and the ability to appropriately interact with peers and coworkers are other things to be on the lookout for.

According to Global Perspectives, there are four stages to culture shock that one must work through to before a resolution is discovered. People can move through these stages in any order, but typically must go through each of them before coming out the other side and feeling satisfied and successful in one’s new environment, whether it’s short term or long term.

The first stage is called the honeymoon stage and refers to the initial positive feelings associated with trying something new and living or traveling in a new place. People often become infatuated with their new surroundings during this stage and love everything that has to do with it, including the people, food, entertainment, and living environment. For some people on shorter trips, this honeymoon phase describes the entire trip and the other stages don’t come into play because one isn’t in the new place long enough to transition through them all.

The frustration stage, which can also be called the disenchantment phase, sets in when one begins to become frustrated or irritated with the inability to interact with locals, whether due to the differences in customs or the language barrier that crops up when traveling or living abroad. As the ability to cope declines, a person will feel increasingly angry, frustrated, and hostile about the new situation and the difficulty that comes with trying to shop, dine out, and meet new people when different languages are spoken and different customs are followed.

When one moves into the adjustment phase, he or she is becoming more familiar and comfortable in the new surroundings and is getting better at navigating the new location. People may begin to pick up on the language and social cues and start to meet new people. Shopping, eating out, reading street signs, using public transportation, and making new friends become easier during this stage, which is usually a positive one for most people.

The acceptance stage can take weeks, months or even years to get to, but is characterized by the ability to thrive in a new place, despite the differences in customs, culture and language. A person in this stage begins to realize that these differences will likely stay in place, but they don’t have to be a barrier to success and fulfillment in the new home or workplace.

Though culture shock can be uncomfortable or even unpleasant at times, experts say that there are benefits to feeling and experiencing it. According to experts at Work the World, culture shock can help a person gain a better understanding of why their home customs, values and traditions are so important and meaningful to them. At the same time, going through the stages of culture shock also gives people confidence that they can thrive anywhere, as well as improving their feelings toward and interactions with people in a variety of cultures. A greater level of maturity and a clearer perspective on the different parts of the world are other positive aspects of going through culture shock.

There are a few tips to help one get through culture shock, including trying to immerse oneself in the new place while also surrounding oneself with what’s comfortable and familiar from home. This might be cooking favorite foods or wearing favorite clothes. Staying in touch with family and friends at home, as well as building a new social network can also help make the transition smooth and positive.

The very word “shock” gives the phenomenon of culture shock a negative connotation, but the experience can actually be very valuable and important.

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Home — Essay Samples — Arts & Culture — World Cultures — Culture Shock

Essays on Culture Shock

Embracing the journey of culture shock through insightful essays.

Venture into the depths of culture shock with our thought-provoking collection of essays. Culture shock, a phenomenon experienced by countless individuals as they immerse themselves in unfamiliar cultural environments, offers a unique lens through which we can explore the complexities of human adaptation and cultural exchange. Our essays delve into personal anecdotes, scholarly research, and critical analyses to provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and growth opportunities that come with navigating culture shock.

Exploring the Multifaceted Dimensions of Culture Shock

Culture shock is not a monolithic experience; it varies widely based on individual circumstances, background, and the specific cultures involved. Through our diverse range of essays, readers can explore various aspects of culture shock, including the stages of adjustment, the psychological impacts, strategies for adaptation, and the role of intercultural communication in mitigating its effects. Whether it's the initial bewilderment of arrival, the gradual process of acclimatization, or the eventual acceptance and integration into a new culture, our essays cover the full spectrum of this transformative journey.

A Resource for Students, Expatriates, and Global Explorers

Our collection serves as an invaluable resource for anyone facing the challenges of culture shock or studying its impacts. Students can find inspiration and insights for their own essays on culture shock, expatriates can discover strategies for adjustment, and global explorers can learn to navigate the complexities of entering new cultural realms. Each essay encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and consider the broader implications of cultural encounters in our increasingly globalized world.

Join the Global Dialogue on Culture Shock

The conversation around culture shock is ever-evolving, reflecting the dynamic nature of cultural interactions in the 21st century. We invite you to explore essays that not only shed light on the personal dimensions of culture shock but also engage with its broader social, psychological, and cultural ramifications. By understanding culture shock through various perspectives, we can foster a more empathetic and interconnected global community.

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Culture Shock’s Experiences

I first heard about culture shock when I was thirteen years old. My parents were missionaries in the Philippines, and we were citizens of the United States of America. To me, the word sounded extremely awful. According to the explanation given by the adults, the immigrants to the Philippines were unable to move on with their lives, which was associated with grave culture shock. I remember that whenever we were going somewhere, people stared at us and followed us. It was hard for me to call everyone aunt, uncle, or big brother. On arrival in the country, I nearly choked from the first hamburger I took. It had a weird combination of ingredients and was extremely sweet. All the time the Filipinos considered us to be very unique, and this was linked to our skin color. It was difficult for me to adapt to the cold showers and filter water whenever I needed to use it. This experience was easier for my seven-year-old sibling. I realized that children can easily adapt to difficult conditions, which is the opposite of adults.

Elaborating the experience

Every individual who is residing in a novel country experiences culture shock to some extent. Culture shock is more intense during the first weeks in a novel country. The term refers to the feelings of frustration and helplessness when in a new nation, where the person is unfamiliar with the nation’s culture and language. The immigrant has to adapt to an entirely novel form of life. In addition, the immigrant is unable to practice the level of independence he had in the home country. My parents confided in me that they were unable to communicate with their relatives and friends about their new life. Considering that they did not know anyone in the new country, it was extremely difficult to adapt (Ward, Stephen and Adrian 45).

Understanding some of the typical features of the USA citizens is imperative in comprehending why the mentioned case is a culture shock. In America, citizens consider their individuality as very unique. Every person is equal to the others. This was not the case in the Philippines. The Filipinos considered us as super people because our skin color was different. Moreover, Americans are straightforward in their conversations. When in agreement with an issue, they say “yes” and vice versa. When encountering a visitor, the Americans welcome the person and are friendly to all new people (Hofstede, Gert and Michael 28). As opposed to this, the Filipinos reacted by staring at us and following us. In addition, the Filipinos were not courteous enough to introduce themselves. This aggravated our situation and further depressed us.

Personal opinion

Personally, I consider the concept of a culture shock to be exceptionally vital. Sometimes, culture shock is extremely overwhelming. However, there is a need to try to cope with this so as to feel excitement and happiness, as opposed to depression. People living in a new country always undergo cross-cultural inconveniences. The first weeks are usually very emotional. Moreover, the person experiences a lot of transformations. In my opinion, a person should research the people, language, and culture of the new country before going there. This is helpful because the person familiarizes himself with basic words and how to respond to different situations. Immigrants should form new friends who can show them around and teach them about their new life. This prevents the formation of negative opinions.

Works Cited

Hofstede, Geert, Gert J.Hofstede, and Michael Minkov. Cultures and organizations . London: McGraw-Hill, 1991. Print.

Ward, Colleen, Stephen Bochner, and Adrian Furnham. “The psychology of culture shock.” Psychology Press  2001. Print.

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Experience Of Cultural Shock Essay Examples

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Sociology , Culture , Society , America , Family , United States , Middle East , Food

Published: 01/17/2020

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The differences between the cultures of the people of the United States and the culture of my country, Saudi Arabia are so much pronounced in every aspect. The differences are visible and notable in every field of society ranging from religion to family and social relationships. The family, being the most fundamental social unit in every society, determines to a great extent the cultural values of a society. The culture and social order of a society is described by the language of the people, the mode of dressing they embrace, the foods they eat, the religious practices they observe as well as the style in which they communicate among themselves. A person that moves from their native culture to a different culture is bound to experience a transitional period before they adapt to the new culture. During this period, they experience difficulties trying to understand why the new culture is different from their own. This difficult period is referred to as the period of cultural shock. This paper endeavors to explain cultural shock through my personal experience in the United States. Being of Arabian origin, I encountered serious cultural shock when I arrived in the United States. Arguably, the culture of the United States is the one most complex culture in the world, thanks to the metropolitan nature of its demographics. When I arrived in the United States, the first difference I noted was that the foods here are so different compared to our foods back in Saudi Arabia. The American people like or rather prefer fast foods to any other meal. The fast foods and steak, which are the favorites of the Americans, are not given prominence in the culture of Saudi Arabia. The people of my country, Saudi Arabia, prefer rice and meat, such as mathlota, to fast foods. As such, fast foods are not common in Saudi. Rather, such fast foods are associated with school age children who do not have to commute home for lunch. I, at first, experienced serious difficulties trying to adjust my diet from foods characterized by goat meat and rice to steak and fast foods. Even so, am coping well, thanks to influence and encouragement from my friends. Another serious problem I encountered during my first days in the United States was the language issue. The English language, arguably the most widely used languages globally, is not my first language. Evidently, learning a second language is not the easiest of things. As much as I had little knowledge of the language prior to coming to the USA, I encountered serious problems communicating with people both at school and around the place where I reside. The English language posed a serious problem especially when it came to writing. My lecturers could always complain of my poor mastery of the language. Such things as sentence structure and spellings were a serious problem to me. Though I am not perfect yet, I am trying hard to master the language. With assistance from my friends and private tutor, I am doing well with regard to the language. My problem with English has seriously affected me. For instance, I do not have as many friends in the United States. This is because speaking the language is something I am not so sure about. As such, I tend to avoid people for fear of embarrassing myself. The fear is gradually fading away as I can now talk almost fluently. The family unit in the American setting is so much different from that of Saudi Arabia. For instance, while in the United States polygamy is unheard of, it is a common phenomenon in Saudi Arabia. In other words, the Saudi culture considers polygamy as a normal source of pride. In America, people consider a man having two women as promiscuous. Additionally, the way members of the family relate to one another in America is quite different from the way family members relate in Arabia. I was shocked that in America a girl can get as intimate with the father as to hug. This is an abomination in my culture. In the Arab culture, as well as in the Islamic religion, the social distance between men and women is something that is immensely respected. A man and his daughter cannot get any closer except where necessary. I am however, learning to live with such things since I have to accept the ways of my neighbors and friends. This is actually an eye opener to the fact that, just like any other member of society, family members should be close to one another. In conclusion, the differences between the Arabian and American cultures are so much pronounced that they give a cultural shock with so much impact. However, copying is not as challenging as it may seem since interacting with people is all it takes to be well versed with the social order of the American community. It is from such interactions that a new person can learn the language and get explanations on why things are done the way they are done. Such aspects of society as religion, food and family are core aspects of a community’s culture. For this reason, one has to endeavor to adapt to the differences in such institutions. As for my case, I am getting comfortable each day, thanks to my unlimited capacity to interact.

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Essay on Culture Shock

Students are often asked to write an essay on Culture Shock in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Culture Shock

What is culture shock.

Culture shock is a feeling of confusion that people experience when they visit a new place and are not used to the local customs and habits. Imagine going to a place where people eat, dress, and speak differently. This can make you feel lost and uncomfortable. This feeling is called culture shock.

Stages of Culture Shock

Culture shock has four stages. First, you feel excited about the new place. This is the ‘honeymoon’ stage. Then, you start to feel frustrated and confused. This is the ‘frustration’ stage. Next, you begin to understand and accept the differences. This is the ‘understanding’ stage. Finally, you feel at home. This is the ‘acceptance’ stage.

Effects of Culture Shock

Culture shock can affect people in different ways. Some people might feel homesick or lonely. They might have trouble sleeping or eating. They might also feel anxious or sad. It is important to remember that these feelings are normal when you are in a new place.

Overcoming Culture Shock

Overcoming culture shock takes time. You can try to learn about the new culture. You can also try to make friends with local people. Remember, it is okay to feel confused. With time, you will start to feel more comfortable in the new place.

Culture shock is a normal part of traveling to new places. It can be hard, but it also helps us learn and grow. So, don’t be afraid of it. Instead, embrace it and enjoy the journey.

Also check:

• Advantages and Disadvantages of Culture Shock

250 Words Essay on Culture Shock

Culture shock is a feeling of confusion or discomfort that people often experience when they visit a new place where the way of life is different from their own. When you’re used to one type of culture, seeing or living in a different one can be a big surprise.

Reasons for Culture Shock

Culture shock can happen for many reasons. It could be because of different foods, languages, customs, or even how people dress. For example, if you’re used to eating rice and vegetables, and you go to a place where people eat mostly meat and bread, you might feel a bit lost.

Culture shock usually has four stages. The first is the “honeymoon” stage, where everything seems exciting and new. The second is the “negotiation” stage, where you start to notice differences and may feel unhappy or confused. The third is the “adjustment” stage, where you start to understand and accept the new culture. The last is the “mastery” stage, where you feel comfortable in the new culture.

Overcoming culture shock can take time, but it’s not impossible. The best way to do it is to learn about the new culture, make friends, and try to adapt to the new ways of life. It might be hard at first, but with time, you’ll start to feel more at home.

Culture shock is a common experience for people who travel or move to a new place. It’s normal to feel a bit lost at first, but with time and patience, you can learn to appreciate the new culture and even enjoy it.

500 Words Essay on Culture Shock

Culture shock is a feeling of confusion or discomfort that people experience when they visit a new place or country. It is like stepping into a world where everything seems strange and unfamiliar – the food, the language, the customs, and even the way people dress or behave.

Causes of Culture Shock

Culture shock can happen for many reasons. One of the main causes is the difference in lifestyle. For example, if you move from a quiet, small town to a big, bustling city, you might feel overwhelmed by the noise, the crowd, and the fast pace of life.

Another cause is the difference in language. If you are in a place where you don’t understand the language, you might feel lost and frustrated. You might find it hard to communicate or understand what’s going on around you.

Culture shock usually happens in four stages. The first stage is the ‘honeymoon phase’. This is when everything seems exciting and new. You are curious and eager to explore.

The second stage is the ‘frustration phase’. This is when the differences start to bother you. You might feel homesick, lonely, or even angry.

The third stage is the ‘adjustment phase’. This is when you start to get used to the new culture. You learn the language, make friends, and find ways to cope.

The last stage is the ‘acceptance phase’. This is when you feel at home in the new culture. You might still miss your own culture, but you also appreciate and enjoy the new one.

Culture shock can have many effects. It can make you feel sad, anxious, or confused. It can also make you feel physically sick, with symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or sleep problems.

On the positive side, culture shock can also make you more open-minded and adaptable. It can help you learn about different cultures and grow as a person.

Dealing with Culture Shock

Dealing with culture shock can be tough, but there are ways to make it easier. One way is to learn about the new culture before you go. Read books, watch movies, or talk to people who have been there.

Another way is to keep in touch with your own culture. Call your family, eat your favorite food, or listen to your favorite music. This can help you feel connected and comforted.

The most important thing is to be patient and kind to yourself. Remember, it’s okay to feel upset or confused. With time, you will adjust and feel at home in the new culture.

In conclusion, culture shock is a common experience when visiting or moving to a new place. It can be challenging, but it can also be a great opportunity for growth and learning. So, embrace the new, but also cherish the old. That’s the best way to deal with culture shock.

Word Count: 500

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Essay Samples on Culture Shock

My experience with culture shock, culture and culture diffusion.

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Culture Shock In A Professional Environment 

Based on the case study, the cross-cultural experience brought up a lot of problems such as language barrier, cultural difference, failing to adapt to the new culture. After analyzing the case study, the roots of all the problems are clearly derived from an unwillingness to...

Best topics on Culture Shock

1. My Experience with Culture Shock, Culture and Culture Diffusion

2. My Experience with Culture Shock: Raising Children in a Foreign Country

3. Culture Shock In Fashion Industry

4. Reverse Culture Shock: A Literature Review

5. Culture Shock: Communication In The Business World

6. Culture Shock In A Professional Environment 

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