Culture Shocks I Have Experienced in Germany So Far

Addressing older ones by their first name

Although I have always known that in Western culture, it is customary to address anyone who is not a family member by their first name, as a typical African and proud Nigerian, it is quite different. In my cultural upbringing, it is expected to add a prefix such as Dr., Prof., Mr., Sir, or Mrs. to the names of those who are older or hold higher status. While it may not be a strict requirement, it is generally frowned upon if you do not include these titles. However, as I integrated into German culture, where it is acceptable to address professors by their first names, I came to understand that it is still possible to show respect to those who are senior to me in my career without using formal titles, except in very formal settings. 

Less priority to greetings

Coming from a region where greeting others is a way to show respect, regardless of age or status, I initially found it challenging to accept when I greeted people and did not receive a response during the first weeks of my arrival in Germany. I felt a bit frustrated and disrespected. However, I eventually came to accept that it is a cultural norm here. Despite this experience, I still greet certain individuals to this day. The key is to quickly assess the person’s mood and determine if they will reciprocate the gesture. I understand that my perspective on greetings might be somewhat controversial, but it is based on my personal experiences so far. There is a saying that „when in Rome, do as the Romans do,“ and this is a mindset that many Africans living in Germany have adopted. I have also embraced it, although I am still selective in my greetings.

Special treatment for pets:

In my home country, cats are not commonly kept as pets, whereas dogs are more prevalent. Typically, dogs were kept either for profit or as protective companions. However, upon arriving in Germany, I was taken aback to see a large number of people owning various pets, especially dogs. This stark difference in pet ownership was quite surprising to me. In my country, dogs were often raised in a way that made me fearful of them. However, living in Germany has completely changed my perspective on dogs and cats, and I have developed a deeper love and appreciation for them. The affection that Germans show towards their dogs left me astonished when I first arrived. I distinctly remember seeing a woman pushing two little puppies in a baby stroller, and I couldn’t help but find it fascinating.