Culture Shock

Cristina Dorazio & Madonna G. Constantine

Culture shock is a complex set of symptoms associated with the experience of migration to or contact with a new environment and the process of adjusting to this new environment. Historically, culture shock was conceptualized as a consequence of stress caused by contact with a new culture, resulting in feelings of anxiety, sadness, and confusion related to the loss of social rules and accustomed cultural cues. Contemporary definitions tend to characterize culture shock as a state of emotional and physical discomfort one experiences when coming into contact with a new culture and the opportunity for adaptation, acculturation, and integration into the host culture. As the population of the United States continues to become more diverse and multicultural, it is important that mental health professionals identify the physical and emotional elements of culture shock and how to develop appropriate interventions when working with clients experiencing such issues. The term culture shock ...

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