Reverse Culture Shock

“Where once I was surrounded by friends, I now had to make ‘appointments’ to see them. When I did meet my friends, it was clear that their lives had veered in a direction totally opposite from mine . . .” Have you ever had the sentiments like the quote above? Have you ever felt like you are a stranger with your friends, or worse, your family after a homecoming? If yes, I bet you were experiencing “reverse culture shock.” 1. What is “Reverse culture shock”? Reverse culture shock is the shock suffered by some people return home after a number of years overseas. This can result in unexpected difficulty in readjusting to the culture and values of the home country, now that the previous familiar has become unfamiliar. As we know, culture shock happens to immigrants and foreign students when they enter a new culture. They will be shocked because there is something absolutely strange. However, reverse culture shock happens when people return home after a number of years overseas and they feel that it is difficult for them to readjust to the culture and values of home country. In addition, re-entry shock can sometimes be so much more intense than culture shock because it 's not expected. Students typically do a lot of planning and preparation to go abroad, and are usually prepared for some of the difficulties they will initially face in a new culture. However, they tend to do less preparation for returning home. 2. What are the stages of reverse culture shock?
There are 4 main stages of reverse culture shock that can be found in any expatriates: STAGE 1: Disengagement
This stage happens while the returnee is still abroad and he begins thinking about moving back home and moving away from his overseas experience and friends. This stage is characterized by a brief, or an extended, time of euphoria over being back home. As a result, the returnee begins to distance himself from his friends and host country. STAGE 2: Initial Euphoria
This stage usually

References: Ballard, B. & Clanchy, J. (1984). Study Abroad – A Manual for Asian Students. Malaysia: Longman. Bruce, A. (1997).Culture Shock at Home: Understanding Your Own Change - The Experience of Return, pp. 79-80 David C. P. & Ruth E. R. (1999). Third Culture Kids: Growing Up Among Worlds.  Nicholas Brealey. Howell, L. (1999). Coming Home: Sustaining the Experiences of Studying Abroad. The Vermont Connection.