A Longitudinal Examination of Study Abroad: Student Characteristics and Psychological Health Associations

The present study examined traits associated with studying abroad and how study abroad is related to psychological health in a sample of 612 college students over their first three years of college. Individuals who were female, a Fraternity/Sorority member, a non-STEM major, and who had high sensation seeking were more likely to study abroad. While abroad, students reported less stress and depression, and higher positive affect than students who were not abroad and compared to before and after going abroad. Results suggest that study abroad has psychological benefits; however, not all students have the same likelihood/ability to participate.