Title

Examinations of the Role of Individual Adaptability in Cross-Cultural Adjustment

Abstract

We present the results of two studies utilizing the novel theoretical perspective of individual adaptability (I-ADAPT) theory in the study of cross-cultural adjustment. Study 1, implementing a two-wave prospective design and involving 156 international students, examined the relationships between I-ADAPT and cultural identification on cross-cultural adjustment. We found that I-ADAPT positively related to cross-cultural adjustment and that cultural identification mediated this relationship. Study 2, using a three-wave prospective design and involving 312 international students, extended Study 1 by including openness to experience as a control variable and perceived stress as an additional mediator. We confirmed the mediating roles of cultural identification and perceived stress between I-ADAPT and cross-cultural adjustment. Our results offer support for future research utilizing I-ADAPT theory in the study of international adjustment.

Department(s)

Management

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1177/1069072718765193

Keywords

cross-cultural adjustment, host culture identification, individual adaptability, stress

Publication Date

8-1-2019

Journal Title

Journal of Career Assessment

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