Stages of Cultural Adjustment
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Stage 7: Predeparture
Soon, students will be returning home. This phase is usually the last six weeks or so. Even though they may be excited about seeing natural family and friends, and eating some of their favorite foods that they have missed, they are going to have mixed emotions. Here, they have made friends and have a host family they that have come to love. Mixed feelings are normal. Students need to recognize this and accept it. They will need to begin preparing for separation. It is recommended that exchange students review their exchange experiences -- how they felt when they first arrived, and also how they feel now. Preparing for reverse culture shock is most important. Students and hosts can begin by carefully planning their farewells. |
Stage 8: Re-Adjustment
This stage occurs after students have returned home to their natural families. Students will go throuh a "reverse culture shock," and will experience a variety of emotions. Some host families experience a period of mourning and many other feelings. It is important that host families realize their feelings and work through them together. |
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*** The above information is adapted from the Host Family Survival Kit written by Nancy King and Ken Huff. The files are made available for the convenience of my exchange students and host families as they go through the final phases of their intercultural experiences. *** |
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