Culture shock and the working woman: Surviving west coast to northern Louisiana relocation

Women in highly specialized professions often find relocation, with its concomitant culture shock, a necessity for maximum career advancement. An insider's view of culture shock derived from participant observation data suggests that sociocultural and mechanical differences may be overcome through personal qualities of egregiousness, a portable support system, and a penchant for self‐actualization. Social interactional factors aiding the transition include neighborliness, having options, and showing respect. Unresolved culture shock may result in ghettoism or cultural identity crisis.