What happens during Stage 1 of culture shock?

During Stage 1 of culture shock, individuals typically experience excitement and fascination with the new culture. This initial stage is often characterized by a positive emotional response to the novelty of the environment and the experiences it offers. People in this stage are likely to be eager to explore new customs, food, language, and social interactions. The thrill of new discoveries often leads to an optimistic outlook, where differences are viewed as intriguing rather than challenging.

This stage is important as it sets the tone for the subsequent experiences individuals will have as they adjust to their new surroundings. As they become more familiar with the culture, they may later encounter more complex emotions and challenges related to adaptation, such as confusion or frustration, which occur in the later stages of culture shock.