Chinese international students' stressors and coping strategies in the United States.

摘要

This study examines the sources of stress among Chinese students attending Arizona State University. It also investigates how they utilize coping strategies and resources to manage their stress.;This study reveals that the life of Chinese students in the United States is not easy and they have to endure multifaceted life-stresses. Job opportunities, immigration issues and academic pressure rank the highest among the stressors. Individual variables such as gender, college major, age, marital status, length of stay, and acculturation strategies show significant influences on stress levels among students.;It is also found that Chinese students engage in a wide range of coping strategies to alleviate their stress. When seeking help from others, they primarily turn to their family or other Chinese students. Most of them do not know how the counseling services at Arizona State University work, or have a hard time telling counselors about their personal problems. Students identify a lack of common language and understanding of mental health concepts, as well as fear of stigmatization, as limiting their expression of psychological needs and stress.;Based on the findings of this study, suggestions are made to both American university communities and Chinese international students, regarding what must be done to enhance Chinese students' cross-cultural experiences in America. The results of this study can help Chinese students already in the United States and those who plan to come adapt to the American educational environment. The results may also inform policymakers, administrators, and educators in American universities, helping them to improve the services and programs for their foreign students.;A survey was conducted at Arizona State University to obtain information about the stress sources, coping strategies and help-seeking beliefs of contemporary mainland Chinese students in America. A follow-up interview study was conducted to provide additional evidence of these issues. Findings are discussed and analyzed in the context of Berry's conceptual framework of stress and coping for acculturation.