Work

Understanding the impact of culture shock on mental health: Mediating effects of expectancy of success and GRIT in international students in China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study focuses on the mental health of international students, considering its critical role in fostering academic success and long-term mental health. Guided by theories of cultural adaptation and resilience, the research aims to analyze the direct and indirect effects of Culture Shock, Expectancy of Success, and Grit on Mental Health, emphasizing the importance of these factors in helping students adjust to new environments. The study is conducted within a diverse, international context, with participants from 54 different countries (N = 296), reflecting the globalized nature of higher education today in China. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the analysis assesses both the measurement and structural models to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings support the hypothesized relationships, particularly highlighting the mediating role of Expectancy of Success between Culture Shock and Mental Health, as well as the significant predictive power of Grit and Expectancy of Success on mental health outcomes. These results have significant implications for higher education institutions and policymakers, suggesting that fostering a supportive environment that enhances students' expectations of success and resilience may improve their overall mental health. Universities are encouraged to develop initiatives that reduce cultural barriers and promote positive psychological outcomes, especially for international students navigating the challenges of cultural transition. This approach aligns with global efforts to ensure student well-being and academic success in increasingly multicultural educational environments.

Source: Acta Psychologica

DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105344