Cross-Cultural Work Adjustment of Japanese and Communication Graduates, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Ubon Ratchathani University

Abstract

This study aims to examine the adaptation process and the factors influencing cross-cultural work adjustment among graduates from the Japanese Language and Communication Program, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Ubon Ratchathani University. A qualitative research approach was employed through in-depth interviews with two groups of informants: (1) 15 graduates working in Japanese companies in Thailand and (2) 15 graduates working in Japan. The findings indicate that the adaptation processes of both groups are generally consistent with the U-curve and W-curve models of cultural adjustment. However, the adaptation process is complex and closely related to spatial context and living environments. Graduates working in Japanese companies in Thailand adjust within the context of “two cultures”—Japanese organizational culture and the surrounding Thai social culture. Most adapt relatively smoothly, typically reaching the adjustment stage within the first 1–3 years and progressing to the mastery stage after more than three years of work. Social support from colleagues and surrounding individuals plays a crucial role in reducing stress and facilitating cross-cultural adaptation. In this context, adaptation tends to occur as a mutual process between Thai and Japanese colleagues. In contrast, graduates working in Japan must adapt within an intensive “single-culture” environment and receive comparatively less social support. As a result, they rely more on personal factors, leading to a “one-sided adaptation” process in which they adjust as “visitors” to align with the working environment in Japan.