What Is Culture Shock?

What Is Culture Shock?

The term culture shock refers to feelings of uncertainty, confusion, or anxiety that people experience when they are transplanted into a society that's different from their own. Culture shock sets in when people vacation, do business, go to school, or move to another city or country. The syndrome arises from an individual's unfamiliarity with local customs, language, and acceptable behavior.

Companies often provide training to help employees acclimate and reduce cultural gaffes, which can affect professional transactions, operations, and relationships when doing business abroad.