Why do female expatriates 'fit-in' better than males? an analysis of self-transcendence and socio-cultural adjustment

Cole, Nina, and Mcnulty, Yvonne (2011) Why do female expatriates 'fit-in' better than males? an analysis of self-transcendence and socio-cultural adjustment. Cross Cultural Management, 18 (2). pp. 144-164.

[img]
Preview
PDF (Accepted Version) - Accepted Version
Download (381kB)
[img] PDF (Published Version) - Published Version
Restricted to Repository staff only

View at Publisher Website: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/13527601111125...
 
51
2799


Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the paper is to assess the relevance of the personal value called self-transcendence as an explanatory factor regarding gender differences in the socio-cultural adjustment of expatriate employees.

Design/methodology/approach: A sample of 37 male and 31 female expatriates responded to an online questionnaire concerning their self-transcendence value and their adjustment as expatriate employees.

Findings: Self-transcendence of the expatriate predicted interactional and work adjustment. Perceived expatriate-local difference in self-transcendence was a negative predictor of work and interactional adjustment. Females had higher (non-significant) self-transcendence than males. Further gender differences in the impact of self-transcendence and perceived expatriate-local differences in self-transcendence were found.

Research limitations/implications: Further research into the effect of expatriate levels of the personal value of self-transcendence, its two components, universalism and benevolence, and gender differences therein appears warranted. Statistical techniques to establish causality should be used.

Practical implications: Knowledge regarding the self-transcendence values of candidates for expatriate assignments may assist global human resource managers to make more effective selection decisions regarding expatriate assignments.

Originality/value: The study described in this paper is among the first to assess potential explanations for the better interactional and work adjustment of female expatriates compared to males. This study replicates earlier findings regarding the relationship between perceived expatriate-local differences in self-transcendence and expatriate socio-cultural adjustment and provides new knowledge regarding gender differences in this relationship.

Item ID: 14948
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1758-6089
Keywords: expatriates, gender, individual psychology, women
Date Deposited: 08 May 2012 23:13
FoR Codes: 15 COMMERCE, MANAGEMENT, TOURISM AND SERVICES > 1503 Business and Management > 150308 International Business @ 100%
SEO Codes: 97 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 970115 Expanding Knowledge in Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services @ 100%
Downloads: Total: 2799
Last 12 Months: 112
More Statistics

Actions (Repository Staff Only)

Item Control Page Item Control Page