Social Networks of International Students in Japan: Perceived Social Support and Relationship Satisfaction

抄録

Perceived social support and relationship satisfaction of international students in Japan were examined. A total of 221 international students responded to a questionnaire composed of items that questioned the demographic characteristics of their network members, type of relationship, equity in relationship and satisfaction with relationship. Contact, relationship type and nationality of supporters were critical determinants of overall perceived social support, while relationship type, contact and equity were important for determining satisfaction in the relationship. On-campus relationships were important in academic support, while offcampus relationships played vital roles in both. This study revealed the importance of taking into consideration off-campus supporters in a study of international student adjustment.