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Phases of the Re-Entry
Process
The process of
re-entry is explained below in terms of what students typically
face. You may spend considerably more or less time in each phase
than is listed below.
Leave Taking
This phase
takes place before leaving the host culture when you
consider what it will be like to return
home. This is a bittersweet time as you may be thinking of
leaving but at the same time thinking of all you have missed
while abroad.
Honeymoon
This phase
takes place the first week or two you are home. Being
back is exciting because you are reunited with family and
friends and doing many things you missed while away.
Reverse
Culture Shock
In this phase,
you may begin to make judgments of the home culture based
on your level of adjustment and familiarity of the host culture.
You have gained a different world view, often feel
misunderstood, and realize the personal growth and changes that
occurred while abroad. The opinions of family, friends, and
Americans in general may seem closed-minded and ignorant.
Relationships may become strained, because others may treat you
as the person you were before you left and not notice or
understand your personality changes. You may feel overwhelmed and doubt
their decision to come home, consider going back, and feel
stressed. The common reaction to this phase is resistance.
Readjustment
In this phase,
you develop a more balanced view of the United States
and are able to put both it and the overseas experience into
perspective. The anxiety level goes down, and the routine of the
home country seems more natural. You are able to see both the
home and host country for what they are and no longer curse the
former for not being the latter.
Taken From:
The Art of Coming Home. Storti, Craig. Intercultural Press,
Yarmouth, ME (1997).
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