A Culture Shock in America - Essay Example

Three types of cultural adjustments are noted in the world. First, there is the cultural surprise. This is experienced by individuals who note the superficial differences between the two cultures. For example, it is easy to notice the dressing style and attire of the two cultures. Similarly, an individual will note the language signs and nonverbal communication. An individual moving from Saudi Arabia to America will note such differences. For example, the dress in Saudi Arabia is different from the dress in America.

Secondly, there is cultural stress. This is where an individual has to adapt to the new culture. This could be a daunting task especially when an individual is immensely connected to their culture. In many cases, a person will learn these activities for an acceptable living (McInnes 14). For example, a person will learn to drive a car while using the stated regulations. A perfect example is that most American vehicles are left-hand-drive. This could be a daunting task to people who are used to driving Right-hand-drive vehicles.

Thirdly, there is the ultimate culture shock. This is a psychological reaction, which is normal. These are the reactions to the stress experienced by a person emanating from the change in values. For example, when in America, shaking hands is a normal occurrence. As such, people will often shake hands as a way of greeting. In addition to this, hugging a person shows affection and connection. Saudi Arabia is a country dominated by the Islamic religion. As a fact, a better percentage of the country’s population practices Islam.

Therefore, most of the values and beliefs are inclined to Islam. Secondly, Saudi Arabia is dominated by a single ethnic group, which takes close to 90%, as most of the people communicate through the Arabic dialect. As a fact, there is an immense difference between the mode of communication in urban places and rural areas. Thirdly, people in Saudi Arabia have a liking for large and extended families. This enhances the continuity of the family. Consequentially, extended and large families have an advantage.

For example, when they are involved in the family business, most of the family members will be employed. It is noted that people in Saudi Arabia have a soft spot for nepotism (McInnes 34). This implies that it is safe to employ people who are trusted and known rather than employing people from other ethnic and family backgrounds. Fourthly, during entertainment, it is noted that only people of the same sex are allowed in a single room. Similarly, the attendance should dress conservatively and remove their shoes before gaining access to the house.

Fifthly, people always eat with their right hand. This is after the declaration that the left hand is unclean. Lastly, Arabians are generous when it comes to food. Therefore, people will be served in abundance. The guest should try to taste all the servings. On the other hand, the United States has diverse religions. Some of the religious affiliations include Christianity. This has influenced the diversity of cultural values and beliefs in the United States (McInnes 17). Therefore, migrating from Saudi Arabia to the United States will be a culture shock to an individual. For example, Muslims have a preferred mode of dressing for both females and males. However, in the United States, each individual has a discrepancy in the choice of dress code.