Decreased serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in non-exercising young adult Japanese men

Abstract

between the groups. Comparing both groups’ total scores post-immersion, therewas a significant difference. Therewas a significant difference for the experimental group between the pre/post immersion total scores but not for the control group. Comparing both groups’ post immersion, there was a significant difference between the groups. Comparing both groups’ component scores, there was a significant difference in emotional resilience and perceptual acuity for the experimental group only. Comparing both groups’ component scores, therewas no significant difference in the personal autonomy and flexibility openness variable. Conclusion(s): Participation in a 6-week global immersion experience compared to education only made a greater change in the development of cross-cultural adaptability for a graduate student team. Implications: These are similar observations made by other researchers who reported benefits of similar experiences for varying periods of time. However, it verified the literature for a heterogeneous team of graduate professional students, which is a variation on prior studies. Educators may consider this information for students when valuing potential global immersion experiences in future planning, for administrators who will focus on the cost-benefit of the experience, for clinical and community partners and the informed public who may have an interest in the cultural sensitivity of current and future healthcare and human services professionals, and for graduate students who have a passion for international travel within their academic studies. The exploration of team collaboration impact on the results is a consideration for future research in this area.