What Is Culture Shock?

The Adaptation Stage

Once the frustration and feelings of anger subside, people will start to adjust to their new surroundings. Although they may still not understand certain cultural cues, people will become a little more familiar—at least to the point that interpreting them becomes much easier.⁵

The Acceptance Stage

Following this period of adjustment comes the final stage of culture shock: Acceptance. This doesn’t mean that new cultures or their values, beliefs, and attitudes are completely understood. Rather, it signifies a realization that complete understanding isn’t necessary to function and thrive in the new surroundings. During the acceptance stage, travelers have gained the familiarity they need to feel more comfortable with life in a foreign society.⁴

 

Culture shock isn't caused by a specific event. It results from encountering different ways of doing things, being cut off from behavioral cues, having your own values brought into question, and feeling you don't know the rules.