What is culture shock

Culture shock is the feeling of confusion, stress, or discomfort people often experience when they move to a new country or environment with different customs, language, and ways of life.

It usually happens because daily habits, social rules, and expectations are unfamiliar.

For example, food, greetings, communication style, or even study and work culture may feel very different.

Here some stages of culture shock:

1. Honeymoon stage
   At first, everything feels exciting and new. You enjoy the food, places, and people.
2. Frustration stage
   After some time, you may feel homesick, confused, or stressed because things are so different. Language problems or daily habits can feel hard.
3. Adjustment stage
   Slowly, you start learning the new ways—how people talk, eat, or study. Life begins to feel a little easier.
4. Acceptance stage
   Finally, you get comfortable. You may not be “perfect” in the new culture, but you feel more at home and balanced.