What perspective should I take towards missions training?
What types of training should I consider?
Can I become a missionary if I don’t want to learn another language?
» more related questionsQ: How do I learn how to deal with culture shock?
A: Get good training.
The important thing in handling culture shock is having had effective training prior to going to the field. While there is no preventative cure, there are several things that will help make you a more effective witness for Christ. Realistic expectations, first year focused only on culture and language, intentional bonding period with nationals rather than hanging out with other expats, not communicating with home frequently, etc.
Missionary Training International in Colorado Springs has excellent prefield training if your agency does not provide this. Also look at good book like Ted Ward’s Living Overseas.
Missionary Training International in Colorado Springs has excellent prefield training if your agency does not provide this. Also look at good book like Ted Ward’s Living Overseas.
A: Learn about culture shock before you experience it.
Part of our mission's requirement for appointees is a month or more of pre-field training which deals very specifically with culture shock. We spent a month this past fall at the Center for Intercultural Studies in North Carolina taking the Equipping course, exploring topics such as transitions, world view, ethnocentrism, culture theory, culture shock/stress, contextualization, cross-cultural communication, expectations, and more.
One essential of dealing with culture shock is understanding the culture. This is a process, but reading and observing will start you on your way. Another important factor is understanding that culture shock is a stress reaction that will happen and that it is a predictable part of adjustment. Knowing your own vulnerabilities and struggles is also essential in adjusting to a culture. Know that your value is in Christ, not in what you do or in how you perceive others feel about you. This is a healthy truth to savor, even in your home culture!
Look at books such as Ministering Cross-Culturally by Lingenfelter and Mayers, Cross Cultural Connections by Duane Elmer, Culture Shock: Dealing with Stress in Cross Cultural Living by Myron Loss. Also, Marshall Cavendish publishes a whole series of books on different cultures called CultureShock! A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette. If you have a particular country in mind, this is a fantastic resource.
One essential of dealing with culture shock is understanding the culture. This is a process, but reading and observing will start you on your way. Another important factor is understanding that culture shock is a stress reaction that will happen and that it is a predictable part of adjustment. Knowing your own vulnerabilities and struggles is also essential in adjusting to a culture. Know that your value is in Christ, not in what you do or in how you perceive others feel about you. This is a healthy truth to savor, even in your home culture!
Look at books such as Ministering Cross-Culturally by Lingenfelter and Mayers, Cross Cultural Connections by Duane Elmer, Culture Shock: Dealing with Stress in Cross Cultural Living by Myron Loss. Also, Marshall Cavendish publishes a whole series of books on different cultures called CultureShock! A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette. If you have a particular country in mind, this is a fantastic resource.
A: Look at these online articles.
Living and Serving in Other Cultures
Coping with Culture Shock
What Missionaries Ought to know about Culture Stress
Books for Missionary Care
Coping with Culture Shock
What Missionaries Ought to know about Culture Stress
Books for Missionary Care
