An examination of the relationship between acculturation and anxiety and anhedonia among international students in Vancouver

• Main Author: Tse, Yvonne Yikyu
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01-01-2014
• Subjects: Counseling Psychology
• ISBN: 130393776X; 9781303937767

In this study, the relationship between acculturation styles and anxiety and anhedonia among international postsecondary students in Vancouver, Canada, was investigated. Scales measuring acculturation styles, as well as anxiety and anhedonia, were distributed in Vancouver. Forty participants were included in the study. Ward and Rana-Deuba (1999) found that strong homeland identity predicted enhanced psychological well-being in sojourners in Nepal. Findings of the current research suggested there is no significant correlation between acculturation styles and anxiety and anhedonia despite suggestions by Berry (1988) and previous findings. International students who adopted an integrated acculturation style did not adjust better psychologically than those with other acculturation styles. Those who had strong homeland acculturation did not present as less anxious or less depressed than those with less homeland acculturation. However, students who had high host country acculturation style experienced less anxiety. The study results highlight the possible contribution of external variables to mental health issues in international students.