- It is a distressful emotional reaction to an unfamiliar environment experienced by students who arrive in a foreign culture and linguistic space.
- The mental shock experienced by international students during the process of adjusting to a foreign country and culture, which may or may not necessarily, be dramatically different from the student's.
- Initially, it is an emotional reaction to a new environment, which, without intervention, can progress to become a mental health problem.
Culture Shock Triggers:
- A sense of loss and feeling of deprivation
- Emotional strain due to migration
- Confusion of role and expectations of new culture
- Disruption in perceived 'Normalcy' associated with student's culture
- Feeling of powerlessness
Symptoms of Culture Shock include:
- Feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, helplessness, sadness and worthlessness
- Loss of identity
- Irregular eating and sleeping
- Extreme homesickness
- Difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making
You can learn more about Culture Shock by watching the videos below:
(Acknowledgement: Columbia Business School)
Need help? Contact the Counseling and Wellness Center (Marcus White Hall)