Cross-cultural adaptation and Chinese students in Europe

Peter Broeder

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionScientificpeer-review

    Abstract

    This contribution goes into the experiences of Chinese students studying at universities abroad. In the host societies they find themselves having to deal with major cultural confusion, which frustrates their education. Individualism and independence are characteristics strongly embedded in modern Western societies. By contrast, Chinese students are used to intensely interdependent group support and close relationships with family members, whose approval is perceived as being more important than self-acceptance. These traditions can make it difficult for Chinese students to cope with the isolation and frustration that studying abroad implies, particularly in modern Western societies.
    The aim is to unravel what coping strategies Chinese students develop when facing culturally biased challenges. Challenges related to (1) learning and teaching, (2) communicating (non-)verbally and, (3) solving problems and dealing with conflicts. The findings of this study have implications for counselors at universities in and outside of China in that they will need to provide facilities that meet the needs of Chinese students going abroad, and thus contribute to a better mutual understanding.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationCross-cultural adaptation and Chinese students in Europe
    Place of PublicationGuangzhou
    PublisherGuangdong University
    Pages84-86
    Number of pages3
    Publication statusPublished - 2014
    EventThe Third International Conference on Existential Psychology and International Forum on Psychological Education and Couseling for University Students - Guangzhou, China
    Duration: 12 Jun 201415 Jun 2014

    Conference

    ConferenceThe Third International Conference on Existential Psychology and International Forum on Psychological Education and Couseling for University Students
    Country/TerritoryChina
    CityGuangzhou
    Period12/06/1415/06/14

    Keywords

    • chinese students overseas

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