The Role of Spirituality in Cultural Adjustment of Asian International Students

Kyunghee Ma

doi:10.30564/jiep.v3i1and2.2375

The Role of Spirituality in Cultural Adjustment of Asian International Students

Kyunghee Ma (Univ. of South Carolina College of Social Work)

Article ID: 2375

DOI: https://doi.org/10.30564/jiep.v3i1and2.2375

Abstract

Many Asian international students face adjustment challenges as they live and study in the United States (US). While it is largely unrecognized in the West, collectivist spirituality is an essential part of Asian cultures and functions as a potent source of resilience. This article, therefore, explores spirituality and describes how it functions as a coping mechanism for Asian international during their cross-cultural adjustment. Additionally, implications are made for university-based counselors, educators, and administrators to better support this student population.

Keywords

Asian international student; Collectivist culture; Adjustment challenges; Spiritual coping

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