Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges Faced by International Students in Türkiye: A Psychological Perspective

This study examined the cross-cultural challenges faced by international students in Türkiye, with perceptions of discrimination and stereotyping recurring as key themes. It included prejudice and exclusion based on nationality or ethnicity, further complicating communication dynamics and a sense of belonging. International students in Türkiye face unique challenges when adjusting to a new educational environment, and one of the primary barriers they encounter is the language. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the cross-cultural communication challenges faced by International Students in Türkiye from a psychological perspective, deploying qualitative methods with a case study approach. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, this study explored the lived experiences of international students, aiming to determine the psychological mechanisms underlying their communication difficulties during acculturation in an unfamiliar academic and social environment. These findings reveal various challenges arising from language barriers, cultural differences, and the negotiation of identity. Moreover, language emerged as a significant barrier, with international students expressing frustration and anxiety due to their limited language skills, which hindered their ability to engage in academic discourse and social interactions. Language is crucial, while the physical and social environment influences the adaptation process. A proactive attitude facilitates integration despite barriers such as racism and stereotypes. It is then crucial to consider cultural influences in psychology, particularly in cross-cultural contexts. The experience of international students in Türkiye highlights the importance of intercultural dialogue, emphasising the need to understand different perspectives.