Stages of Culture Shock

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STAGES OF CULTURE SHOCK DESTINATION COUNTRY DESTINATION COUNTRY HOME COUNTRY HOME COUNTRY Preliminary stage Preliminary stage Reentry stage Reentry stage Adjustment stage Adjustment stage Shock stage Shock stage Spectator stage Spectator stage Participation stage Participation stage HOME COUNTRY HOME COUNTRY The above diagram shows the five stages of culture as identified by Klopf. The six stages are discussed below. 1. The Preliminary Stage This is the first stage which involves the preparation for the new experience. During the process, anticipation and excitement build as one packs and makes reservations and plans. This stage is also characterized by an individual having a sense of hopefulness and euphoria as the individual looks forward to being exposed to a new culture, with expectations of meeting new people, expecting to get fun outdoor activities to undertake, perhaps a different climate from that which he/ she is used to and anticipating to get a different diet. People will tell their close family and friends about the venture they are about to take on with lots of excitement and probably arrange for those who will see them off to the airport if they are travelling by air. 2. Spectator Stage At this second stage, the individual has arrived at the destination. With the arrival, there are many strange sights and different people, the language is fascinating and the trip feels like the greatest thing ever done. Also called the honeymoon stage, the spectator stage is overwhelmingly positive and far from bewildering. There is a sudden unforgettable rush of foreign stimulation the moment a person gets off the plane or whichever means they were using. The honeymoon stage may last from a few days to six months. On shorter trips this honeymoon period can be a huge enjoyment and having a set return date can ward off the
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