Most people will be familiar with the term “culture shock”. But what is a "reverse culture shock"? A term that is mentioned far too seldom in the preparation and follow-up of a long stay abroad. It is also known as re-entry shock and describes a psychological phenomenon that occurs very often in people returning home after living abroad for a long time.
The main reasons for reverse culture shock are usually false expectations, the idealization of the foreign culture, and failing to effectively deal with the challenges that a returnee faces when they return. When you come home you have to face several facts: You have changed. The home country has changed. You must also recognize that reintegration into the home culture requires effort. The fact that the home environment has also changed can be disorienting and overwhelming. Not only the private environment but also social trends have evolved. Relationships within the family or - quite simply - the cityscape may have changed. If the person concerned does not adjust to such changes, a feeling of homelessness can quickly arise. After all, home is no longer the home that you knew. Realize that life at home did not stop while you were absent.
But these are not the only typical challenges. There is a lack of interest in your experiences in your home country. Your need to communicate is not met. The news and developments from your native country bore you. You miss standing out from the crowd as a foreigner and enjoying certain privileges. You miss being in international circles.
According to Elyssa Preston, an experienced repat coach, possible consequences of reverse culture shock can include overexertion, excessive demands, depression, indifference to social life, and overthinking. Other side effects are anger, frustration, self-doubt, boredom, helplessness, homesickness/wanderlust, impulsiveness, physiological stress reactions, and more.
If you are struggling with the above mentioned negative emotions of reverse culture shock and would like to get expert help to get through these difficult phases, speak to a professional expat life coach today.
|