Building Self-Efficacy in Intercultural Communication: A Narrative Study of an International Ph.D Student in The US

Authors

  • Putri Tiara Septiani Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia
  • Popon Nur Khafidhoh Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia
  • Ratna Andhika Mahaputri Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia
  • Herlina Herlina Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33394/jp.v12i4.16953

Keywords:

self-efficacy, intercultural communication, narrative inquiry

Abstract

This study aims to explore how self-efficacy in intercultural communication was constructed by an Indonesian Ph.D. student in the United States through academic and social experiences. A narrative inquiry design was employed to capture lived experiences and meaning-making processes in intercultural adaptation. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, self-recorded conversations, and researcher notes, with triangulation applied to ensure validity. Thematic analysis indicated that intercultural challenges, including communication barriers and cultural differences, were navigated through adaptive strategies, reflective practices, and support from academic and community networks. The findings suggest that self-efficacy is a dynamic process, strengthened through mastery experiences and social reinforcement. This study emphasizes the need for reflective learning opportunities and empathetic institutional support to enhance international students' intercultural competence.

Author Biographies

Putri Tiara Septiani, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati

Putri Tiara Septiani
Undergraduate student at the English Education Department, Faculty of Education and Science, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia.

Popon Nur Khafidhoh, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati

Popon Nur Khafidhoh
Undergraduate student at the English Education Department, Faculty of Education and Science, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia.

Ratna Andhika Mahaputri, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati

Dr. Ratna Andhika Mahaputri, S.Pd., M.Hum.
Lecturer at the English Education Department, Faculty of Education and Science, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia. She serves as the main research collaborator for this study.

Herlina Herlina, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati

Dra. Herlina, M.Hum.
Lecturer at the English Education Department, Faculty of Education and Science, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia. She contributes as the supporting research collaborator in this study.

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Published

2025-10-11

How to Cite

Septiani, P. T., Khafidhoh, P. N., Mahaputri, R. A., & Herlina, H. (2025). Building Self-Efficacy in Intercultural Communication: A Narrative Study of an International Ph.D Student in The US. Jurnal Paedagogy, 12(4). https://doi.org/10.33394/jp.v12i4.16953

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