FITTING INTO THE FRENCH WAY OF LIFE - CultureShock! A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette: France - page 88

turn into long strings of complaints,
stereotypical truisms seem to be
coni rmed.

Emotions Depressed, discouraged and

suspicious of strangers. Very lonely.
Culture shock in extreme.

Physical response Extreme fatigue, often illness.

The Fourth and Fifth Month
'You know, this is actually a very efi cient way of doing it!'
Activities

Small victories in work and language
study. Ways of getting things done are
sorted out. Moments of competency
bring hope. (If this does not begin to
happen during this time, the visitor
will usually give up.)

Attitudes Constructive and positive in outlook

and potential. Accommodation to the
French ways of doing things.

Emotions Renewed interest in the country and in

its people.

Physical response Health restored.

The Sixth Month
'Your i rst visit? Well, don't miss...'
Activities

Routine established and visits now
planned into other parts of the
country with visiting friends. Local
friendships established.

Attitudes Maintain basic constructive attitude

despite good days and bad days.
Plateau reached.

Emotions The ups and downs of life now

accepted as normal, and a
growing interest in helping others
and reaching out to those who
are struggling.

Physical response Normal