The readings on "Sociocultural Factors" provided some unique insights that I had never previously considered. I found the section about stereotypes particularly interesting. The section highlighted how often we do stereotype those who come from different backgrounds and cultures than ourselves. While Francois Lierres's article regarding do's and don't's for his fellow Frenchman traveling to the United States is entertaining, it is also interesting to see how a culture is stereotyped by those alien to it.
Moreover, the concept of second culture acquisition was something I had never thought of before. Essentially, the concept claims that an individual learning a second language begins to develop a second identity; this is referred to as acculturation. The challenging of an individual's previous cultural identity by a newly-forming identity can foster issues, especially abroad. Culture shock can be even more stressful for those who experience acculturation.
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