 International relocation has been around long enough that we have all
become aware of what is commonly referred to as the “U-Curve” of
cultural adjustment.
In the “U-Curve,” individuals first experience excitement (often
referred to as the “honeymoon” phase of international relocation). Then
as reality sets in and it is no longer laughable to struggle with such
issues as local telephone systems, strange foods and different
electricity, people become disgruntled and aggravated. The third phase,
acceptance, sets in when people have learned to navigate successfully
within the new culture and begin to feel comfortable in their new
environment.
Now however, researchers have come to recognize that the “U” portion of
international moves is only part of the scenario. In reality, we have
two dips, or the “W-Curve.” The last dip impacts unsuspecting families
when they least expect it—upon repatriation. Individuals expect to slip
right back into a familiar environment after living overseas; I know we
did after our return from a 4-year tour in the UK. But in reality
people simply do not transition home that easily. Many changes have
taken place within us, as well as with friends and families left
behind. Expatriates are so thoroughly unprepared for this phase because
they assume: “How hard can it be? After all, we are going ‘home.’”
Therefore, this final adjustment causes greater stress than the initial
culture shock of moving overseas.
 “Reprinted with permission from Relocation Today Volume 7,
Issue 3 by BR Anchor Publishing, Wilmington, NC. Publisher, Beverly D.
Roman is the author of twenty relocation titles for adults, teenagers,
preteens and young children. Contact her at
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
, or +1 910.256.9598. See her books at www.branchor.com
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First Steps 
