Culture shock and adaptation of international students in Thailand higher education.

Abstract

The objective of this study is to understand culture shock experiences of international students in Thailand and to analyze the factors that might affect their socio-cultural adaptation. The study focuses on students’ experiences from their preparation before entering Thailand until the adaptation stage. The framework was developed from constructs based on culture shock and adaptation theory. The data were collected through individual in-depth interviews. The interviewees come from Vietnam, Cambodia, Iran and Cameroon. The results showed that the international students have faced culture shock according to U-curve theory. The international students who came from Thailand’s neighbouring countries found it easier to adapt to Thai culture because there is no great cultural distance between their own countries and Thailand. But for the students who have different cultural backgrounds, more time is needed to adapt. Thai language also becomes a barrier preventing international students from becoming real friends with Thai students, and this also affects the adaptation of the international students. The international students also need strong social support. The most important support comes from the university and its professors.

KEY WORDS: Culture Shock / Cultural Adaptation / International Students / Higher Education / Thailand