Culture Shock

An issue which nowadays is very up to date is culture shock because of high immigration, especially of Muslims to European countries. But, what does culture shock exactly mean?

According to Paul Pedersen culture shock is  a “process of initial adjustment to an unfamiliar environment”.

However, before this stage takes place a honeymoon stage occures. It is a time full of hopes and great expectations. Then, a culture shock comes when it turns out that life in a foreign country is difficult because of language barriers and difference of traditions. People at this stage feel stressed, overwhealmed and uncomfortable. Feelings like this can last for months until a recovery stage takes place.

During this time people are able to speak a new language a bit and they get used to a new way of living.

Lastly, an adaptation stage occurs where people gain a lot of confidence because of language skills. They are at this stage able to live independently as they understand everything people say and they are able to express their thoughts. They have also accepted that they have to follow new laws and practices of a new country. 



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