Unpacking Reverse Culture Shock: Unexpected Challenges and Personal Growth for Returning Students
Many students anticipate culture shock when going abroad for an extended period, but they do not expect reverse culture shock upon returning to their home country. Even if they have heard about reverse culture shock before leaving, it is difficult to imagine what they might experience or feel. One of the interviewees in my research mentioned that she had heard about reverse culture shock but thought it would not apply to her. She was prepared for culture shock but not for reverse culture shock. However, she definitely experienced it.