ACCULTURATIVE STRESS WITH COPING STRATEGIES FROM CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE IN COLLEGE STUDENTS

Abstract

This study examines acculturative stress and its coping strategies within the context of cross-cultural life experiences. By referencing relevant theories and current literature, this research identifies common causes of acculturative stress, such as physical, biological, social, cultural, and functional pressures. Acculturative stress is commonly experienced by students who relocate for higher education, especially when the move involves significant cultural mental well-being, lack of confidence in seeking social support, and challenges with language and specific cultural differences. The impacts of acculturative stress can affect students' mental and physical health, including decreased norms. Various coping strategies are discussed, including problem-focused and emotion-focused approaches. From a cultural perspective, coping patterns may vary depending on individuals' cultural backgrounds, such as the use of passive or active coping strategies, self-focused or others-focused coping, and reliance on religious coping mechanisms. The findings of this research provide insights into acculturative stress and its coping strategies, which can inform the development of appropriate interventions to support the well-being of cross-cultural students.