Abstract
This study examined acculturative stress in a sample of English language
learners. It was hypothesised that acculturative stress would significantly
predict psychological well-being, that acculturative stress would differ
significantly across demographic variables, and that social support would act as
a buffer. This study adopted a cross sectional and correlational design. Data was
collected through a survey featuring demographic questions, the Acculturative
Stress Scale for International Students, the Index of Sojourner Social Support
and the Psychological General Well-Being Index. Analysis indicated that
acculturative stress was predictive of psychological wellbeing. Acculturative
stress was significantly higher in learners from South American countries, it
increased significantly with longer residency, and was significantly higher in
learners in their mid-20s to early 30s. It was also found that perceived social
support acted as a moderate buffer. The results highlight groups of learners at
risk of psychological distress and has implications for learner support services.
