The dynamics between allocentric-idiocentric personality dimensions, perceived acculturative stress and cross-cultural adaptation

A literature review

Abstract

Individual-level cultural orientation is a key personal variable affecting the acculturation process and outcomes. Based on the literature, this review unravels the dynamics between allocentric-idiocentric personality dimensions, acculturative stress, and cross-cultural adaptation among international students. The literature consistently documents that acculturative stress is negatively associated with cross-adaptation. However, it reveals inconsistent findings regarding the relationships of allocentric-idiocentric personality dimensions with acculturative stress and cross-cultural adaptation. Some studies suggest that allocentrism is associated with reduced acculturative stress and enhanced cross-cultural adaptation, while others link it to increased acculturative stress and poorer adaptation. Similarly, idiocentrism has been related to lower acculturative stress and improved adaptation in some studies, but to higher stress and poorer adaptation in others. Acculturative stress has been suggested as a potential mediator between allocentrism-idiocentrism and adaptation. The review highlights the need for further research on how allocentric and idiocentric personality tendencies influence acculturative processes and outcomes.