Cross-Cultural Adaptation of Thai Students in Japan

Abstract

This study is qualitative research. The purposes of this study were to 1) study the cross-cultural adaptation of Thai students in Japan and 2) study factors influencing the cross-cultural adaptation of Thai students in Japan. The data was collected by using documentary research and in-depth interviews with 7 Thai students studying in Japan. The study found that only two students completed all 4 stages of cross-cultural adaptation, while the other five students started from the second stage or the culture shock stage. Only two students can fully blend in with the Japanese culture when entering the last stage of cross-cultural adaptation. Factors influencing cross-cultural adaptation were found to be that adaptive and sociable personalities positively influence adaptation. Experiences in communicating with foreigners and traveling abroad also result in confidence in communicating with people from different cultures. On the other hand, insufficient language skills can cause misunderstandings in communication. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that students should prepare themselves by 1) studying the social norms and culture of the destination country in advance, trying to develop flexibility skills, and adapting to cultural differences. 2) Enhancing language skills, and 3) participating in activities and finding opportunities to communicate with the locals to reduce culture shocks.