Examining cultural intelligence and culture shock among international students in Türkiye

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction This study examined cultural intelligence and culture shock among international students studying in Türkiye. It focused on the relationship between cultural intelligence and culture shock and the extent to which cultural intelligence predicted culture shock. Methods The study employed a quantitative correlational survey design. Cultural intelligence and culture shock levels were examined, and differences according to gender, city of residence, and country category were analyzed. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between the variables and the predictive role of cultural intelligence and its dimensions. Results Participants generally reported high levels of cultural intelligence and low levels of culture shock. Differences according to gender, city of residence, and country category were limited. Cultural intelligence was negatively associated with culture shock (r = −.353, p < .01) and significantly predicted culture shock ( β = −.353, R² = .124, F = 34.548, p < .001). In the final regression model, motivational and metacognitive cultural intelligence emerged as significant predictors. Discussion The findings suggest that cultural intelligence, particularly its motivational and metacognitive dimensions, may be an important intercultural resource associated with lower culture shock. These findings may inform universities and policymakers in developing orientation programs, counseling services, and intercultural training initiatives that support international students' adjustment, well-being, and social integration within Turkish higher education.