Link to this article in Chinese
By Sean C.
When Chinese students or scholars complete their studies or work abroad and return to China, they often encounter a series of unexpected challenges known as “reverse cultural shock.” Reverse cultural shock refers to the psychological and emotional discomfort experienced by individuals when they return to their original cultural environment. This phenomenon is a significant challenge for returning Chinese Christians as they readapt to Chinese society. For Christian returnees, this shock is particularly pronounced because they must adapt not only to cultural and professional changes but also to challenges related to their faith and church life. Below are some manifestations of reverse cultural shock and strategies to cope with it, as summarized by our fellow workers:
1. Psychological Stress:
Manifestation: Many returnees feel lonely and isolated upon returning to China because the social circles and lifestyle habits they developed abroad differ significantly from those at home. This discrepancy can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. For Christian returnees, this psychological stress can be even more severe because they have grown accustomed to the church life and spiritual support systems available abroad. In contrast, churches and fellowships in China may differ significantly from those abroad, requiring a long period of adaptation and integration.
Strategy to cope: Christian returnees should recognize that reverse cultural shock is a normal process and actively seek psychological support and help. They can join returnee fellowships or find spiritual mentors to share experiences and feelings, providing mutual support.
2. Career Challenges:
Manifestation: Despite having overseas degrees and work experience, returnees often face the fading of the “returnee halo” when seeking employment in China. Many companies prefer candidates with local work experience over recent returnees, especially in the current challenging job market. This preference adds significant pressure to the career development of returnees.
Strategy to cope: Before returning to China, Christian returnees should ideally develop a detailed career plan, understanding the domestic job market and industry trends to enhance their competitiveness and increase employment opportunities. Additionally, they should pray more and follow God’s calling and guidance (for some, God’s calling may be full-time ministry or mission work).
3. Cultural Differences:
Manifestation: Returnees who have lived abroad for many years have become accustomed to Western lifestyles and values. Upon returning to China, they must readapt to Chinese cultural norms and social practices, which can be a challenging and uncomfortable process. For Christian returnees, this cultural difference also includes variations in religious beliefs and church life. They may find that churches in China lack the rich resources and activities available abroad, leading to feelings of loneliness and frustration. Additionally, the values and beliefs they adopted overseas may conflict with mainstream Chinese culture and societal values, requiring them to navigate these differences in their daily lives.
Strategy to cope: Christian returnees can approach the process of relearning Chinese society and lifestyle with humility and patience. They can seek advice from those who returned earlier and stay informed about the latest social dynamics and cultural trends by reading domestic news and books.
4. Social Relationships:
Manifestation: The social networks that returnees established abroad often cannot be maintained upon their return to China. Rebuilding social connections at home requires time and effort, and the disruption of these relationships can leave returnees feeling lonely and helpless. For Christian returnees, finding a suitable church or fellowship is particularly important but can be difficult.
Strategy to cope: Christian returnees should actively seek out churches and fellowships in China and participate in church activities to gain spiritual support. They can engage in small group Bible studies, prayer meetings, and other activities to maintain their personal devotional life and faith.
By employing these strategies, Christian returnees can gradually overcome the challenges of reverse cultural shock and successfully readapt to Chinese society. It usually takes several months, however, to work through this adjustment period, so be patient and trust you will feel better in eventually.