The Impact of Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges on Students’ Mental Health: Case of International EFL Learners at the University of Ain Temouchent

Abstract

The present research explores the effects of cross-cultural communication issues on the psychosocial well-being of international EFL students at the University of Ain Temouchent, Algeria. It tackles the socio-psychological challenges that affect their mental well being as foreign language learners. Accordingly, a mixed-method design was adopted including interviews, a questionnaire, and a classroom observation. Data analysis demonstrate that disparities in languages, especially in French and Arabic, were the most daunting issues. Besides, cultural barriers led to tension, anxiety, and mild depression that were injurious to both social relations and academic achievements. Students also experienced challenges in unfamiliar classroom interactions due to cultural differences. The study also examined coping behaviours, such as a trend towards seeking help from teachers and peers rather than utilizing personal coping mechanisms. Findings indicated that emotional distress was most severe during the culture shock phase of the U-Curve Theory of Cultural Adjustment. Even with some recovery indicators, most students’ self-regulation systems failed. Acoordingly, the study insists on the importance of addressing the link between cross-cultural challenges and mental well-being as there is a need for using an adapted emotional and educational support systems in our teaching environments.