In the process of individual identity development, culture plays a primary role. This course will systematically examine the intrapersonal impact of cultural adaptation by reviewing theories of change, ethnic identity development, acculturation, and cultural marginality. Special topics include: loss and change, models of transition, adaptation, and acculturation, and culture shock and re-entry as developmental processes.

Course Objectives:

• Develop awareness of current theories regarding (1) how loss informs all change, (2) how cultural identity develops, and (3) how the experience called “culture shock” might be explained sufficiently to analyze the cultural transitions of oneself and others
• Develop the ability to integrate these theories with information about the stresses and risk factors which surround cultural transition, in order to develop practical strategies to foster constructive adjustment
• Practice using these theories to expand awareness of both the positive and negative potential of cross-cultural adaptations, applying and critiquing them in light of specific cases