A Case Study of International Students’ Social Adjustment, Friendship Development, and Physical Activity

Authors

  • Shuang Li University of Wisconsin-Madison, United States
  • Sam Zizzi West Virginia University, United States

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v8i1.171

Keywords:

Cross-cultural transition, friendship, international students, physical activity, social adjustment

Abstract

Previous literature has focused on international student’s social transition and monocultural and bicultural ties. Little research has explored international students’ multicultural friendship development and the role that physical activity plays in their social interaction. The current case study explored a group of international students’ friendship development and the social aspect of physical activity. Data from individual interviews (pre and post), and 5 months of participant observations was used to describe two female international students’ experiences. Results suggested international students faced both language and cultural barriers in their social interactions with American students. Engagement in physical activities served as the context where observations of peer-to-peer social behaviors happened. Researchers argued that the multicultural friendship developed and strengthened by engaging in these physical activities. This paper also discussed implications and limitations of the study as well as future recommendations.

 

 

Author Biographies

  • Shuang Li, University of Wisconsin-Madison, United States

    SHUANG LI, PhD, graduated from West Virginia University. She is a researcher at University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her research interests include individuals’ health and wellness, physical activity, and cultural issues. 

  • Sam Zizzi, West Virginia University, United States

    SAM ZIZZI, EdD, is a professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at West Virginia University. His work focuses on health behavior change, primarily related to physical activity promotion and obesity prevention. 

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Published

2018-01-01

Issue

Section

Research Articles (English)

How to Cite

A Case Study of International Students’ Social Adjustment, Friendship Development, and Physical Activity. (2018). Journal of International Students, 8(1), 389–408. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v8i1.171