Impacts of Culture Shock on Intercultural Communication: Experiences of International Students in Cameroon

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between intercultural communication and culture shock among foreign students in Cameroon. In an increasingly interconnected world, individuals moving across borders for education, work, or personal reasons often experience culture shock a phenomenon arising from exposure to unfamiliar cultural environments. Drawing on recent research, the study examines the challenges and opportunities faced by 31 foreign students as they navigate cultural differences in communication styles, non-verbal cues, societal norms, and other cultural elements. Through survey analysis, the findings highlight the stages of culture shock, the roles of cultural elements in its manifestation, and its impact on students’ academic and social integration. Furthermore, the study explores how intercultural communication skills and social support systems facilitate adaptation and help mitigate culture shock. By focusing on the experiences of foreign students in Cameroon, the research provides valuable insights for educational institutions, student support services, and researchers, offering strategies to enhance intercultural communication and foster inclusive learning environments for international students.