Tridimensional Acculturation Orientations and Perceived Cultural Distance Predict Post-migration Growth after Study Abroad

We examined the role of tridimensional acculturation orientations (host, heritage, and expatriate) on post-migration growth (intrapersonal and interpersonal) among two groups of students: Czech students (N = 148) returning to the Czech Republic after a sojourn in different host countries and international students from various heritage countries (N = 100) after their sojourn in the Czech Republic. Students were assessed after their sojourn.

In line with expectations, structural equation modeling revealed that intrapersonal growth (change in self-understanding, confidence, resilience, etc.) was in both groups associated with larger perceived cultural distance (perceived differences between the heritage and host country in values, customs, relationships, etc.). Among international students, intrapersonal growth was further associated with a strong expatriate orientation (affiliation with fellow expatriates and their culture) and strong heritage orientation (affiliation with co-nationals and adherence to the heritage culture), while no links were found among Czech students. Interpersonal growth (change in interpersonal networks, relationships and communication skills) was predicted by larger perceived cultural distance (Czech only) and stronger heritage orientation (international only). Intrapersonal and interpersonal growth was unrelated to host orientation (affiliation with host nationals and host culture) in both groups. Czech students scored higher on host orientation than on heritage and expatriate orientations, whereas no significant differences among orientations were found in the international student group.

In conclusion, larger perceived cultural distance may represent a form adversity that brings about more growth regardless of the host and heritage culture context. Involvement in the expatriate and heritage culture also contributes to growth.