An experience of personal disorientation when confronted with an unfamiliar way of life is called?

• A. Culture Shock
• B. Xenocentrism
• C. Beliefs
• D. Cultural Universals

Answer: (A)

The experience described is culture shock. It’s the feeling of disorientation, confusion, or anxiety that comes when you encounter a way of life, norms, language, or daily practices that are very different from what you’re used to. You might notice unfamiliar greetings, different social rules about politeness or personal space, new foods, or different concepts of time and work. This reaction often unfolds in stages—from a initial sense of novelty (the honeymoon phase) to growing confusion and frustration (the negotiation phase), and then to gradual adaptation as you learn how things work in the new setting.

Xenocentrism isn’t about feeling disoriented; it’s a viewpoint that foreign cultures are superior to one’s own. Beliefs are specific ideas or propositions someone accepts as true, not the emotional reaction to new culture. Cultural universals are features shared by all cultures, not a personal experience of encountering unfamiliar life. So the described experience best fits culture shock.