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CULTURE SHOCK |
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No matter
how well the new arrival prepares before landing in Beijing, the
fresh-off-the-plane expatriate is going to experience some trials and
tribulations before finally adjusting to life in China. Despite
individual differences, culture shock tends to accord with the following
progressive stages:
1.The Honeymoon (weeks 1-6)
Everything about the foreigner's new environment is novel and
interesting, piquing curiosity and inviting exploration.
2.The Crisis (weeks 6-12)
As the adrenaline-powered thrill tapers off, the negatives of the new
culture make themselves apparent, resulting in stress. The newcomer
walking on air just a week ago has since come crashing down to earth.
Each action and situation seems to result in increased frustration.
3.Rejection (starts around month 3)
Everything that goes wrong and all the misunderstandings get blamed on
the locals and their strange ways. This is a critical juncture. While
some never get beyond this stage, those who stay and make an effort to
reconcile the nature of their existence are rewarded by ascendancy to
the next stage adaptation.
4.Adaptation (6 months after arrival)
In this period of adjustment, the foreigner is able to see living in the
foreign land from a more realistic view that accommodates both the
positive and negative aspects of the new culture. The foreigner feels
more autonomous and begins to develop a social network and support
group. In general, foreigners who understand the local language are more
tolerant and appreciative of the locals than those who do not. While
each individual is different, more than half of new arrivals reach the
adaptation stage six months into their stay and feel comfortable in
their new surroundings.
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