Contrasts, changes, and correlates in actual and potential intercultural adjustment

Abstract

A comparison was made between students studying abroad (SA) in a foreign culture versus students staying in their home culture (Home) in relation to potential and actual intercultural adjustment. In addition, the SA sample was followed over four time periods from pre-departure, beginning, middle, and end of the study abroad semester. The SA group was higher than the Home group in actual adjustment and most of the measures of potential intercultural adjustment both at the beginning and at the end of the semester. SA students changes in the Intercultural Adjustment Potential Scale (ICAPS) did not support a single theory of adjustment. ICAPS Total and Emotional Regulation scores for the SA group at pre-departure were significantly correlated with actual adjustment three months later at the end of the semester. Clusters of personality traits and coping strategies were significantly related to average measures ICAPS Total, Emotional Regulation, and Satisfaction with Life. Actual and potential intercultural adjustment changed in opposite directions over the course of the foreign sojourn. Discussion focuses on key features that may enhance both actual and potential intercultural adjustment.