Prior cross cultural exposure and cross-cultural adaptation of Asian and non-Asian international students in China

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/a65sbb31

Keywords:

higher education, Chinese international students, international students

Abstract

Past research has focused primarily on the cross-cultural adaptation of expatriates upon arrival in the host country, but few studies have explored the prior cross-cultural contact and adjustment experiences of international students. This study examined the impact of prior cross-cultural exposure on the cross-cultural adaptation of Asian and non-Asian international students with varying lengths of stay in China. The analysis of questionnaire data from 430 international students (77.44% Asian, 22.56% non-Asian) in western China revealed that both groups had limited prior cross-cultural exposure. Cross-cultural adaptation increased over time in China. Interestingly, non-Asian students had better cross-cultural adaptation in the first three months than Asian students did because of better preparation, but subsequently faced more crises in adjustments that eased past the two-year point. The findings suggest the need for pre-departure cross-cultural training to consider cultural distance and the transition phase.

Author Biographies

  • Kai Zhang, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak and Xihua University

    Kai Zhang   is a PhD candidate at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia. He is a lecturer at the Faculty of Literature, Journalism and Communication, Xihua University, Pidu District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China.

  • Su-Hie Ting, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak

    Su-Hie Ting (corresponding author), Ph.D., is a Professor at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Her research focuses on language choice, attitudes and identity, communication strategies, and health communication. Email: shting@unimas.my

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2025-07-02

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Vol. 15 No. 7 (2025): Journal of International Students

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How to Cite

Zhang, K., & Ting, S.-H. (2025). Prior cross cultural exposure and cross-cultural adaptation of Asian and non-Asian international students in China. Journal of International Students, 15(7), 65-84. https://doi.org/10.32674/a65sbb31