A Truth Stories

Imagine being a student from a culture where it is not considered appropriate to ask a question in class, to ask for help of special assistance in mastering the material, or to admit to others that you are having difficulties in class. These are examples of cultural stress. Cultural stress refers to difficulties created when the original practices of one’s culture are in conflict with the practices of the new adopted culture. For example, some students might not take advantage of tutoring services because, in their country or subculture, to so do in admitting to a personal failure. As a result, such student often feels overwhelmed by practices that are common in their adopted culture. In addition to stress caused frustration, burnout, and cultural differences, there is also the stress that comes with conflict.

Furthermore, no matter what the cause, your stress level will be influenced by how you respond to frustration. If your response to frustrating situation is primarily emotional, your levels of stress will increase, because emotional responses trigger the flight-or-fight response and cause increase physiological arousal.