A researcher spends years conducting fieldwork with an indigenous tribe in Papua New Guinea and has a difficult time reacclimating to Western society when he returns to it. He uses the experience of returning home to view his own society from an outsider's perspective and learn something new about it. Which sociological concept best exemplifies the experience of this researcher?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The experience of the researcher returning to Western society and having a difficult time readjusting is an example of culture shock. This concept refers to the feelings of disorientation and discomfort that occur when one is suddenly exposed to a new culture or way of life. In this case, the researcher had become accustomed to the norms and values of the indigenous tribe, which were likely very different from those of Western society. His return to the latter thus triggered feelings of culture shock.

A Researcher Spends Years Conducting Fieldwork with an Indigenous Tribe