Stress-Related Growth Associated With Acculturation and Mental Health Among International Students

Abstract

Little information exists on the application of stress-related growth as a theoretical framework in the lives of international students studying in an Eastern culture. The purpose of this study is to capture positive outcomes associated with acculturation among international students living in South Korea. Using constructivist grounded theory, 18 participants took part in this study. The findings identified four main themes: (a) the experience of cultural growth, (b) the creation of inter–intra group friendships, (c) the experience of personal growth, and (d) improved life satisfaction. It appeared that these benefits indicate that acculturation can produce a context in which people can promote their social and psychological well-being.