Contextualizing the interpretive approach to cultural adaptation, I came to find the “U-curve Model” details the common adaptation process of study abroad students in new environments. The “W-curve Model” is also a good example of an individual returning to their homeland and relearning how to catch up in their familiar environment, however I wish to focus more on the experience abroad.
The “U-curve Model” is a theory of cultural adaptation positing that migrants go through fairly predictable phases—excitement and anticipation, shock and disorientation, then adjustment—in adapting to a new cultural situation (Martin and Nakayama 2013 p.337). It is a normal emotion to be excited, even anxious to visit or study abroad. The first phase of the theory describes a common emotional reaction in being in a new environment, followed by the anticipation of discovering new places and things to see and do. To a degree, many students predict certain aspects of their experience will be a prejudged way (like public restrooms or even food standards). Depending on the length of the stay, controlled environment versus an uncontrolled environment (such as a traveling program, or schooling versus staying with a friend or family), and exposure to cultural norms and meanings all factor in to one’s experience. Playing in to how one adapts to the new environment, the interpretive approach then leads on to discuss the onset of “culture shock”: the next phase of the “U-curve Model” theory.
“Culture Shock” is described as a relatively short-term feeling of disorientation and discomfort due to the lack of familiar cues in the environment (Martin and Nakayama 2013 p.338). Most students studying abroad run in to the issues of language and cultural differences due to the lack of knowing how to act in specific situations. During the period of transition to a new culture, the key to beating “culture shock” would be to have continuous contact with that culture. A good example of instances where individuals tend to avoid culture shock would be that of military personnel. For the most part, those personnel who live abroad tend to avoid contact with the surrounding society. This fact is true for the most part, however in my own experience, I found the military personnel more than happy to be caught in downtown Canberra (Australia) than on the military base. Short-term adaptation techniques work more smoothly with the extended contact with the target culture, and then help guide the individual in adjusting to the culture more comfortably.
The final “adjustment” phase of the interpretive approach of cultural adaptation goes on to detail how individuals gradually learn the rules and customs of the new cultural environment; diminishing the sense of “culture shock” (Martin and Nakayama 2013 p.341). Individual adaptation is key to adjusting to a new environment. Sociopolitical, religious as well as moral obligations, and cultural background all play heavily on the phase of adjustment; as adjusting to a new culture happens in increments (primarily limited to exposure).
Being an international student myself, I have discovered that studying abroad is an incredible experience. It not only opens up new doors and opportunities, but also brings one to see new ways of life and create relationships with people for a lifetime. The “U-curve” theory certainly does outline the basic roller-coaster of an adaptation process for those who study abroad. I certainly can supply proof of the concept of “culture shock” and the process of adjustment, both abroad and on the home front. However, I urge those who have yet to travel or study abroad to do so. Even if it is even in the works for your future, I highly advise on experiencing a culture outside of your own, for you learn so much about yourself apart from that of the surrounding culture.
On a final, quick note, I would like to add the fact that students are key in opening up relations between nations. The exchange of students between nations allows more opportunities to share information, trade, political ties, and culture. Studying any language is a pertinent tool in developing a more connected world and sharing information between societies. The process of adaptation has become easier due to technological advances and social media, bringing the “U-curve” theory in to a new era of cultural adaptation. Doors are opened through the internet and means of communicating have become cheaper and more common. Opportunities to travel abroad, or even becoming acquainted with other cultures through increasing immigration in some US areas (such as the recent migration of Libyans and southeast asians to the Lincoln, NE area—bringing their culture and experiences).
Exploring new cultures is a normal human tendency in the attempt to understand differences between individuals. The American education system should continue to offer opportunities to allow students to study abroad and share those experiences—in a sense “culturing” Americans more and sparking that interest in visit the world outside of US boarders.
Sources:
Martin, Judith N., and Thomas K. Nakayama. "Chapter 8: Understanding Intercultural
Transitions." Intercultural Communication in Contexts. 6th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill
Higher Education, 2013. N. pag. Print.
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