Perceived social support : a differential predictor of stress, loneliness, and personality among the English speaking expatriates in Germany

Abstract

No previous studies have examined the risk factor of social support among English speaking expatriates in Germany. The present study explored the relationship between social support, personality, stress, and loneliness, in a sample of eighty-four expatriates (21 men and 63 women) in Germany. Also examined were variables that predict positive acculturation. Assessments were derived using standardised questionnaires. Results indicate: (a) significant associations between social support and stress (r=-.611, p<0.01, two tailed), (b) social support and loneliness (r= -.843, p<0.05, two tailed); (c) loneliness and stress (r= .634, p<0.01, two tailed), (d) self-esteem and stress (r= -.658, p<0.01, two tailed), and (e) self-esteem and belonging (r=- .666, p<0.01, two tailed). In addition, results from the independent T -Test indicate a significant difference between men and women in (a) social support (t= -2.400, df.=25.979, p<0.02, two tailed), and (b) loneliness (t= 2.553, df= 29.805, p< 0.05, two tailed), but no difference in (c) stress. Finally, results from a further independent T -Test indicate a significant difference between 'strong' and 'weak' social support groups in (a) stress (t=-5.412, df.=82, p<0.001, two tailed); (b) loneliness (t=- 7.392, df=62.419, p<0.001, two tailed); (c) extraversion (t=3.281, df.= 63.615, p< 0.02, two tailed); and (d) neuroticism (t=-2.880, df=81, p<0.05, two tailed). The findings highlight the importance of social support as a buffer against acculturative stress.