Sojourner reentry: a grounded elaboration of the integrative theory of communication and cross-cultural adaptation

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18 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper offers grounded evidence in support of the elaboration of Kim's [(2001). Becoming intercultural: An integrative theory of communication and cross-cultural adaptation. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage] integrative theory of communication and cross-cultural adaptation (ITCCA) to include sojourner reentry. Findings from 24 intensive interviews validate the heuristic value of ITCCA in the reentry context, but also reveal unique features that set reentry adaptation apart from cross-cultural adaptation. Key theoretical contributions include (1) a nuanced description of the role of reentry communication competence, (2) greater complexity of the roles and networks of interpersonal and mediated communication upon return, (3) an expansion to the environment domain to include “home environment,” and (4) a long-range perspective on the development of functional fitness, psychological health, and intercultural personhood. Implications for sojourner reentry training are addressed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)419-445
Number of pages27
JournalCommunication Monographs
Volume83
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2016

Keywords

  • Reacculturation
  • grounded theory
  • identity
  • intercultural personhood
  • reentry shock
  • sojourner
  • study abroad

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Communication
  • Language and Linguistics

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