Abstract

This study examined the degree to which various factors predict closeness in intercultural friendships. Models of moderation, mediation, and moderated mediation of perceived cultural humility on the disclosure-closeness link were explored. College-age students (N = 47) assigned as international student-American domestic student pairs completed self-report measures of perceived cultural humility, closeness, self-disclosure, perceived partner disclosure, and discussion of culturally related issues. Overall, the sample reported high levels of perceived cultural humility. Results of multiple linear regressions revealed disclosure directly predicted closeness for both international students and American domestic students; the hypothesized indirect effects of perceived cultural humility were not supported. Both greater perceptions of cultural humility and more frequent discussion relating to cultural background were not associated with stronger feelings of closeness. These findings indicate in-depth disclosure, reciprocal sharing of intimate information on a range of topics, is key to developing closeness with intercultural acquaintances. More research should be conducted to further investigate the mechanisms through which this process occurs.

Advisor

Garcia, Amber

Department

Psychology

Disciplines

Multicultural Psychology | Social Psychology

Keywords

intercultural friendship, closeness, disclosure, perceived cultural humility, international students, domestic students, intergroup relations

Publication Date

2020

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2020 Isabelle Gangloff