Identity negotiation : rethinking the affects of International study in a global society

Abstract

This thesis presents the results of research that sought to undercover evidence to determine if identity negotiation and reinterpretation takes place when students study abroad. The findings were derived from a self-completion survey administered to university students that had studied internationally in 2005. It was determined that the severity of culture clashes endured abroad determined the potency of the experience. However, specifically where the students studied and how their program was facilitated, had a more direct impact on their ability to acclimate and integrate. The outcomes also suggested that previous multi-cultural and international experiences mediated the students understanding of the local culture of their host country. Identity reinterpretation appeared to be more pronounced in students that had never studied or lived abroad before.