Which term describes the adaptation of cultural values over time after living in a new culture?

• A. Acculturation
• B. Enculturation
• C. Culture Shock
• D. Ethnocentrism

Answer: (A)

Acculturation describes the process of adapting cultural values, beliefs, and behaviors over time after living in a new culture. It captures how exposure to a different society leads a person to gradually adopt aspects of that culture—language use, social norms, health beliefs, and daily practices—while still negotiating their original identity. This helps explain why health behaviors or communication styles may shift for someone who has relocated or spent extended time in a different cultural setting.

Enculturation is learning your own culture, which is not about adapting to a new one. Culture shock refers to the distress and disorientation that can occur when first encountering a new culture. Ethnocentrism is judging other cultures by the standards of your own.