Navigating New Culture: The Role of Attachment Styles in the Adaptation of International Students in India.

Abstract

Background: International students frequently look for programmes that are not offered in their home countries in order to pursue high-quality education, cultural exposure, professional prospects and personal development while studying abroad. Understanding attachment styles enables people to better comprehend local norms and values, facilitating easier social interactions and minimising misunderstandings, even though adjusting to the host country might be difficult.

Purpose: The present study aimed to explore the relationship between attachment styles and sociocultural adaptation among international students in the host country. The study's specific goal was to comprehend how different attachment styles affect international students' adjustment to new cultural customs, social norms and values.

Methods: The study included 240 international students (male = 120 and female = 120) enrolled in various universities and educational institutions in Varanasi City, Uttar Pradesh, through purposive sampling. Participants were selected between the ages of 19 and 35 years. The Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ) and Revised Sociocultural Adaptation Scale (SCAS-R) were used in data collection.

Results: The findings show that secure attachment style increased sociocultural adaptation, whereas insecure attachment styles decreased it among international students in the host country. A secure attachment style offers consolation, confidence and strong social bonds, all of which significantly enhance international students' sociocultural adaptation in India.

Conclusion: Social integration of international students may be greatly aided by planning inclusive cultural activities that promote engagement, lower social barriers and create a friendly atmosphere. Educational institutions may foster cross-cultural understanding and improve the overall campus experience for both domestic and international students by giving priority to such efforts.