Negotiating cultural and contextual experiences

Exploring acculturative stress and coping strategies among international students in Canada

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/tsqkad73

Keywords:

acculturative stress, international students, intercultural experience, Canada, intercultural communication, mixed method, learning Sciences

Abstract

This study identifies the intercultural and contextual stressors experienced by undergraduate international students in a business program at a private Canadian university. Using a sequential mixed-methods design, we drew on Redfield et al.’s (1936) concept of acculturation and Berry’s (2001) theoretical model. First, we invited all international students in the program to complete a survey that included Sandhu and Asrabadi’s (1994) Acculturative Stress Scale. Second, the survey data were complemented by focus groups organized by students’ year in the program. The participants were presented with aggregated survey data to prompt discussion about the results. Intercultural stressors, such as cultural shock and homesickness, pose challenges in adapting to new cultural norms. Contextual stressors, including students’ unmet expectations and uncertainties related to immigration policies, underscore structural issues that intensify students’ challenges. 

Author Biographies

  • Irene Torres-Arends, University of Calgary and Yorkville University

     

    Irene Torres-Arends is an EdD candidate and a Fulbright Scholar. She is a Professor in the Liberal Arts Department at Yorkville University in Canada and a Learning Sciences doctoral student in the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary, Canada. Her research focuses on international students, cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT), and cultural changes. Email: itorres@yorkvilleu.ca, irene.torresarends@ucalgary.ca

  • Michele Jacobsen, University of Calgary

    Michele Jacobsen, PhD, is a Professor of the Learning Sciences in the Werklund School of Education and a Teaching Scholar at the University of Calgary. Jacobsen uses participatory research methodologies to design and evaluate innovations in online and blended learning, inclusive excellence in graduate education, and advancements in supervisory development. Email: dmjacobs@ucalgary.ca

  • Brian Lang, Yorkville University

    Brian Lang has his Bachelor's degree in Linguistics from the University of Toronto as well as TESL Ontario certification. He has been at Yorkville University since 2021, working as the Academic Support Coordinator. Email: blang@yorkvilleu.ca

  • Abhijay Sharma, Yorkville University

    Abhijay Sharma received his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Yorkville University in 2023. Upon graduating, he began as the Student Life Coordinator at the same campus. Email: asharma@yorkvilleu.ca

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Published

2025-09-13

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Vol. 15 No. 9 (2025): Journal of International Students

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Research Articles (English, regular edition)

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How to Cite

Torres-Arends, I., Jacobsen, M., Lang, B., & Sharma, A. (2025). Negotiating cultural and contextual experiences: Exploring acculturative stress and coping strategies among international students in Canada. Journal of International Students, 15(9), 119-140. https://doi.org/10.32674/tsqkad73

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