Let my pictures convey my emotions: Acculturation and place attachment of mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong’s campus libraries

Abstract

Acculturation is a crucial concern that international students grapple with while pursuing their studies in a cross-cultural environment. This study utilizes photovoice, a visual field method, along with reflexive thematic analysis (reflexive TA), to explore the emotional connection between mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong and campus libraries. Additionally, it explores the role of the university campus library in their acculturation process. The study’s findings underscore the profound attachment that mainland Chinese students develop toward campus libraries, revealing the complex nature of their acculturation journey. By engaging in comparisons encompassing individuals, rules, experiences, imagination, and culture, these students have cultivated favorable perceptions of their library experience, employing it as a strategic approach for acculturation and integration. Notably, the library space affords students a sanctuary of privacy and autonomy, facilitating their immersive engagement within a personal realm, and concurrently assuaging any sentiments of isolation and unease encountered in communal settings. However, the emotional attachment that mainland Chinese students develop toward the library may exacerbate long-term academic stress and anxiety, negatively affecting their experience adapting to the local culture. This groundbreaking article examines the relationship between international students’ acculturation and place attachment, providing crucial theoretical insight into this important issue. Moreover, the research provides valuable guidance for university administrators to effectively aid international students in adapting to cross-cultural environments.