Unveiling psychological and sociocultural adaptation patterns of international students in Hungary

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/21yqse06

Keywords:

sociocultural adaptation, psychological adaptation, sociodemographics, international students

Abstract

The increasing global mobility of students has heightened the need for deeper insights into the psychological and sociocultural adaptation processes in host environments. This study examines the adaptation experiences of 447 international students in Hungary, focusing on the interplay between psychological and sociocultural dimensions of adaptation. Using a cross-sectional design, the study explores how sociodemographic variables, such as gender, age, education level, local friendships, and financial sources, influence adaptation levels. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis reveals that sociocultural adaptation significantly predicts psychological adaptation, underscoring the importance of social integration in fostering overall well-being. The findings suggest that targeted institutional support addressing sociocultural challenges can enhance students' psychological resilience, contributing to their academic and personal success. This research advances the understanding of intercultural adaptation and provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and educational institutions hosting diverse student population.

Author Biographies

  • Werede Tareke Gebregergis, Asmara College of Education; University of Debrecen

    Werede Tareke Gebregergis is a lecturer at the Department of Psychology and Educational Administration, Asmara College of Education, Eritrea. Currently, he is pursuing his PhD studies at the Institute of Psychology, University of Debrecen, Hungary. His research focuses on positive psychology in higher education, wellbeing, cultural and emotional intelligence, multicultural personality, intercultural adaptation of student sojourners, and educational sciences. Email address: weredetarekeg@gmail.com

  • Csilla Csukonyi , University of Debrecen, Hungary

    Csilla Csukonyi, PhD, is a senior lecturer at the Institute of Psychology, University of Debrecen, Hungary. Her major research interests include social and organizational psychology, personality, resilience and adversity quotient, intercultural adaptation, sports psychology, and human-robot interaction. Email address: csukonyi.csilla@arts.unideb.hu

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Published

2025-03-01

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Research Articles (English)

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Gebregergis, W. T., & Csukonyi , C. (2025). Unveiling psychological and sociocultural adaptation patterns of international students in Hungary. Journal of International Students, 15(4), 97-118. https://doi.org/10.32674/21yqse06