Predicting intercultural adaptation and isolation: using the extended parallel process model to test anxiety/uncertainty management theory

Abstract

The study applies Witte's extended parallel process model (EPPM) to Gudykunst and Hammer's anxiety/uncertainty management (AUM) Theory. Results from a secondary analysis of data drawn from a sample of international students provide support for the application of the EPPM to AUM theory. Specifically, the theory predicts and the data indicate that: (1) when uncertainty control processes are dominating, sojourners’ responses are more adaptive than maladaptive, and (2) when anxiety control processes are dominating, sojourners’ responses are more maladaptive than adaptive. Furthermore, a test of the model indicates that favorable contact with, stereotypes held about, and knowledge of the host culture are strong predictors of whether uncertainty control or anxiety control processes will dominate. In the main, the EPPM provides effective means by which to test AUM, and the results indicate the importance of supporting sojourners with education before and assistance during their travels to a foreign culture.