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

Abstract

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.