Cultural Adjustment

The United States is a nation of immigrants who brought with them a variety of cultural traditions and practices. This unique diversity means there is no single uniform "American culture." However, there are certain standards of behavior which are accepted in the United States, and they may be different from your own culture. Some of these customs and attitudes may seem strange or even contradict some of the accepted behaviors in your country. The process of learning about American behaviors and values and coping with them is part of cultural adjustment. Making this adjustment does not mean you have to give up all aspects of your cultural identity.

Americans value the principle of equality of all people, whatever their race, religion, gender, or ethnic background, believing that we all should have the same human rights and protections. Most Americans hold a negative opinion about people who express prejudice or discriminate unfairly against other individuals. There are strict laws related to housing and the workplace preventing discrimination based on race, religion, or ethnic background.

The roles of men and women in the United States may differ from those in your home country. Americans believe in equality of the sexes and value self-sufficiency and independence for both men and women. You may find that roles within your family change, but this is a normal part of the resettlement process. More than one income is often essential to meet basic expenses. As a result of this, both parents may need to be employed and to share child care responsibilities.

Laws govern some aspects of relationships within the family, such as those that protect women and children from physical abuse. Domestic violence laws prohibit the use of physical force against a spouse or family member. There are also laws which restrict the use of physical force in disciplining children. Not taking proper care of children can be considered "child neglect," which may lead to intervention by child protection agencies.

Many misconceptions about American life exist, partly because movies and TV do not present a balanced view of life in the United States. These media, which usually seek to entertain rather than educate, do not generally present typical American values, realities, or behavior. All newcomers to the United States arrive with some misconceptions about this country. You must try to be observant, flexible, and open to change. A good beginning is to ask questions about behavior that puzzles you.

Coping With Culture Shock
Culture shock includes the normal feelings of being helpless or frustrated in a country where one neither speaks the language nor understands the culture. Anyone going to live in a new country will experience a certain degree of culture shock. Symptoms include:

• frustration at not being able to accomplish daily tasks such as shopping or taking public transportation,
• difficulty in sleeping or feeling tired during the day,
• irritability or feelings of anger,
• loss of appetite or feelings of indifference.

These feelings are usually temporary and diminish over time. Many newcomers to the United States have experienced these feelings and have become stronger and more capable as they dealt with them. Ways to cope with culture shock vary among cultures and individuals. It may be helpful to get back to a favorite activity or listen to familiar music. One strategy used by nearly all newcomers is to join groups, particularly mutual assistance associations formed by and for a particular nationality or ethnic group.

To rebuild a life requires patience and hard work. Your days will be very busy, but the more active you are, and the more you take responsibility for your own life, the more successful you will be in resettlement.

The Cultural Orientation Project--http://www.culturalorientation.net, for more information contact sanja@cal.org
Last Updated: 4/25/00