Cross-cultural Adaptation of International College Students in the United States

Authors

  • Yikang Wang Miami University, United States
  • Ting Li Miami University, United States
  • Amity Noltemeyer Miami University, United States
  • Aimin Wang Miami University, United States
  • Kevin Shaw Miami University, United States

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v8i2.116

Keywords:

International students, Psychological adaptation, Socio-cultural adaptation, U-curve

Abstract

The number of international students attending U.S. colleges and universities has increased considerably over the past decade, and the adaptation of these students is an important concern in cross-cultural research. Using survey data collected from a sample of 169 international students attending a U.S. university, this study examines the temporal patterns of students’ psychological and socio-cultural adaptation. Theresults suggest a two-phase U-curved process of psychological adaptation, with the most obvious culture shock occurring during a student’s first nine to 24 months of residence. Socio-cultural adaptation is found to increase steadily over time, without significant retreat. Interpretations, implications, and limitations of the findings are provided.

Author Biographies

  • Yikang Wang, Miami University, United States

    YIKANG WANG, M.S., completed her Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. 

  • Ting Li, Miami University, United States

    TING LI, Ph,D., completed her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Miami University. She is currently is a Curriculum Coordinator and Instructor at the University of Toledo. 

  • Amity Noltemeyer, Miami University, United States

    AMITY NOLTEMEYER, Ph,D., is professor in Miami University's School Psychology program. 

  • Aimin Wang, Miami University, United States

    AIMIN WANG, Ph,D., is professor in the Educational Psychology department at Miami University. 

  • Kevin Shaw, Miami University, United States

    KEVIN SHAW, M.S., is a graduate student in Miami University's School Psychology program. 

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Published

2018-04-01

Issue

Section

Research Articles (English)

How to Cite

Cross-cultural Adaptation of International College Students in the United States. (2018). Journal of International Students, 8(2), 821-842. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v8i2.116