Cultural Value Orientation, Social Networking Site (SNS) Use, and Homesickness in International Students

Abstract

This study explores the relations between cultural value orientation, social networking site (SNS) usage intensity, and homesickness among a sample of international students studying in the United States. The results of this study determined that individuals high in collectivism and familism reported significantly more SNS usage in general. Other results revealed that students with high levels of individualism had significantly lower levels of homesickness. In addition, students with higher levels of homesickness reported a higher level of SNS usage with people back home. Based on the results this paper discusses implications and suggest interventions that could be used with international students.