The Role of Self-Efficacy and Competence in International Student’s Sociocultural Adaptation

Abstract

This study examines the role of self-efficacy in intercultural communication as a mediator between perceived competence and sociocultural adaptation among international students in Japan. The research employs a quantitative approach with 92 international student participants, utilizing validated questionnaires. A hypothesis model is constructed with perceived competence as the predictor, self-efficacy as the mediator, and sociocultural adaptation as the dependent variable. Perceived competence is a latent variable consisting of intercultural communication competence and Japanese language proficiency. Data analysis is conducted using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), with results indicating an acceptable fit for the hypothesis model. While the proposed hypothesis model is generally confirmed, the direct effect between perceived competence and sociocultural adaptation is more significant. Self-efficacy does not act as a mediator but functions as a predictor in sociocultural adaptation. The practical implications of this study emphasize the importance of international offices and policymakers paying attention to facilitating the needs of vulnerable migrant students facing adaptation challenges.