Gender Differences in Coping with Discrimination, Psychological Distress, and College Stress Among International Chinese Students in the United States

Abstract

Chinese students represent the largest group of international students in the United States and have been reported to experience various challenges and stressors including transitional stress, academic stress, language barriers, financial difficulties, perceived discrimination, loss of social support, and homesickness. This study drew from intersectionality theory to examine how Chinese international students coped by gender (through problem-solving, avoidance, and social support) with perceived discrimination, psychological distress, and college student stress (e.g. academic and social stress). Study participants were self-identified Chinese individuals over the age of 18 who studied in the United States as international students (N = 98). Participants completed measures of perceived discrimination, psychological distress, college student stress, coping, and demographic characteristics. Results showed that women reported higher rates of psychological distress and college student stress than men. Problem-solving coping and seeking social support were significantly and positively related to psychological distress for both men and women. Results also showed that women who perceived high discrimination used problem-solving coping to a greater extent than men. Surprisingly, coping approaches were unrelated to college student stress. The findings indicate that examining intersecting identities by gender, in line with intersectionality theory, produced a more nuanced understanding of the experiences and needs of Chinese international students and highlights the importance for colleges and universities of creating inclusive campus climates. Implications and recommendations are discussed.