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Adjusting to American Culture

A Excerpted from the University of Wisconsin Student Services

Americans place much emphasis on individuality and personal identity. This is expressed by informality in appearance, interpersonal relationships, and methods of communication. As long as one does not infringe on the rights of others, he or she is permitted a great deal of flexibility in personal expression.

Life in the United States may at first seem rather rushed. Americans are usually time conscious, thus, punctuality is very important in many situations even among friends. When you make an appointment to see someone, you are expected to arrive at the appointed time. This is especially true with a doctor, professor or your advisor. If you are late, the person you were to see may be unable to meet with you.

Americans are curious about many things and may ask you many questions. Some of the questions may appear ridiculous, uninformed and elementary, and even rude, but try to be patient in answering them. Most Americans are sincerely interested in learning more about you and your culture.

What are the stages of cultural adjustment?

There are four stages of culture adjustment, though each lasts a different length of time for every individual who experiences it. In general, the stages are:

Stage 1
During the first stage, foreign visitors often feel excited. The new country is interesting, the people are friendly and helpful, and the future looks promising.

Stage 2
Problems! Things that were simple back home require more effort in the new country. It seems hard to make friends, and at this point, foreign visitors may begin to believe that the local people are unfriendly. Homesickness begins, and along with it complaints about the new country. This is the stage we hear referred to as "culture shock."

Stage 3
Recovery. The foreign visitor begins to use the language more fluently, so communication with locals becomes easier. Customs and traditions become clearer, and slowly the situation passes from impossible to hopeful. Minor misunderstandings which were stressful in stage 2 become manageable.

Stage 4
Stability. Eventually foreign visitors begin to feel more at home in the new country. What they do not like about their new country no longer makes them so dissatisfied and unhappy. Life has settled down, and they are now able to find humor in the situations in which they find themselves.