Reverse culture shock

Definition

Reverse culture shock is the emotional and psychological adjustment process individuals undergo when returning to their home country after an extended period abroad. This phenomenon often manifests as feelings of disorientation, frustration, and difficulty readjusting to familiar environments and social norms, which can be surprising for those expecting a smooth transition back to their previous life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reverse culture shock can sometimes be more intense than the initial culture shock experienced when moving to a foreign country.
2. Common symptoms include feelings of alienation, frustration with changes at home, and difficulty reconnecting with family and friends.
3. People may struggle with changes in lifestyle, communication styles, or social dynamics that have evolved while they were away.
4. Support networks and preparation for re-entry can significantly mitigate the effects of reverse culture shock.
5. Organizations that send expatriates abroad often provide training and resources to help individuals navigate their return and reintegration process.

Review Questions

• How does reverse culture shock differ from initial culture shock experienced when moving to a foreign country?
  • Reverse culture shock differs from initial culture shock in that it occurs when returning home after living abroad. While initial culture shock typically involves adapting to new norms and environments, reverse culture shock often involves the challenge of adjusting back to familiar surroundings that may feel foreign due to changes experienced during time away. This can lead to feelings of alienation and frustration as individuals find that their perspectives have shifted.
• Discuss the common challenges faced by expatriates during the reverse culture shock process and how these challenges can be addressed.
  • Expatriates often face challenges such as feelings of alienation from family and friends, frustration with changes in their hometown, and difficulty in readjusting to familiar routines. These challenges can be addressed through support networks, open communication with loved ones about their experiences abroad, and engaging in activities that foster reconnection with their home culture. Additionally, organizations can provide resources and training focused on coping strategies for returning expatriates.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of reverse culture shock on an expatriate's personal and professional life after returning home.
  • The long-term effects of reverse culture shock can significantly impact an expatriate's personal and professional life. On a personal level, unresolved feelings of disorientation may lead to strained relationships with friends and family who do not understand the individual's experiences abroad. Professionally, an expatriate may struggle with career reintegration if their skills or perspectives gained abroad are undervalued at home. Ultimately, the ability to successfully navigate reverse culture shock can determine whether the expatriate feels fulfilled in their re-entry or continues to feel disconnected from their original environment.

Related terms

Cultural Adjustment: The process of adapting to a new culture, which includes understanding and embracing different social norms, values, and practices during an expatriate experience.

Expatriate:

An individual who resides outside their native country, often for work or study purposes, facing various challenges related to cultural adaptation.

Re-entry: The process of returning to one's home country after living abroad, often accompanied by the challenges of reintegration into familiar surroundings.