An Examination of Individual Level Factors in Stress and Coping Processes: Perspectives of Chinese International Students in the United States

No empirical research has focused solely upon understanding the stress and coping processes of Chinese international students in the United States. This qualitative inquiry examines the individual-level variables that affect the stress-coping process of Chinese international students and how they conceptualize and adapt to their stress at an American university. Results indicate individual variables, such as age, gender, field of study, length of stay, acculturation style, and coping strategies, show significant influences on stress levels among students. These results can be used to help Chinese international students adapt to the American educational environment and improve the services and programs American universities deliver to their foreign students.