Homesick or Sick-of-Home? Examining the Effects of Self-Disclosure on Students’ Reverse Culture Shock after Studying Abroad: A Mixed-Method Study

This mixed-method study investigates the effects of self-disclosure and reverse culture shock among students returning from studying abroad. While previous literature examined the socio-cultural factors of re-entry, this study explores the role of communication in this readaptation process using a sample of 285 international college students returning home from different countries. Quantitative data showed that some of the dimensions of self-disclosure were significant predictors of reverse culture shock and difficulty during the four phases of re-entry. Qualitative findings revealed reasons for self-disclosure, as well as cultural and interpersonal challenges of sharing one’s experience when returning home. Implications and future directions are discussed to facilitate students’ re-entry through communicative practices like self-disclosure. © 2020 World Communication Association.18 month embargo; published online 11 January 2021This item from the UA Faculty Publications collection is made available by the University of Arizona with support from the University of Arizona Libraries. If you have questions, please contact us at repository@u.library.arizona.edu