The 4 Stages of Cultural Adjustment
Source: Sverre Lysgaard, 1955
Moving to a new country is an enriching life experience that can bring personal growth. During my first year in the states, I took a multicultural counseling class that introduced me to many new cultural terms. One of them being the term “culture shock”. Even though I had heard about culture shock, little did I know about specific cultural adjustment phases and that I was already experiencing one of them.
Honeymoon Phase
At that time, I identified myself with the honeymoon phase (from the chart above). This phase is full of appreciation for the new culture and interest in learning about it. During the honeymoon phase, I was excited to explore new places in Memphis and make new connections. And just like the song goes:
Then I'm walking in Memphis
Was walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
But do I really feel the way I feel?
Culture Shock Phase
The second phase is the culture shock phase, in which feelings of frustration are more present due to cultural differences. Homesickness and loneliness prevail and can often cause distress. Lack of public transportation and loss of independence were particularly frustrating for me. Merriam-Webster defines culture shock as “a sense of confusion and uncertainty, sometimes with feelings of anxiety that may affect people exposed to an alien culture or environment without adequate preparation.” The first sentence example that the dictionary gives is: “Foreign students often experience culture shock when they first come to the U.S.” That sounds like us, right?
Adjustment Phase
As we continue to walk in Memphis, we find ourselves in the adjustment phase. We are slowly learning how to integrate our cultures with the American culture and make the necessary adjustments to adapt. While communication with other people improves, we can make more meaningful connections and "build bridges". During this phase navigating cultural differences becomes more manageable, and we have more access to communities that provide support. Loneliness and isolation are less present due to more opportunities for meaningful connections.
Adaptation Phase
The last stage is the adaptation stage. The adaptation stage is associated with an improved ability to function within a culture and decreased frustration. Stability increases as we gain a better understanding of American cultural norms and values. During this phase, we may increase appreciation for our own culture and the American culture.
The cultural adjustment curve reminds me of mountains in my home country. Life in a different country is full of exciting mountain top experiences and deep valleys where life gets hard. Yet, we continue the hike with a friend or two, remaining steadfast that each step along the way and the view itself will be worth it. Maybe, there will be a sunset too.
The cultural adjustment phases can happen in a different order based on our unique life stories. Also, each stage may be experienced differently depending on our individual experiences and cultural upbringing. I hope that this blog post helps you to become more aware of your journey here in the U.S. and perhaps reminds you to be patient and kind towards yourself. :)
STELA SINANAJ • ALBANIA
Stela moved to Memphis from Albania in 2018 to complete her studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Harding University. She graduated in 2019. In her free time Stela loves to bike, kayak, read, watch sunsets, outdoor yoga, learn about new cultures and cuisines, travel, and spend quality time with international and American friends.