해외파견 근로자의 문화적응 스트레스와 사회적 지지 및 정신건강과의 관계- 아랍에미리트 병원 파견을 중심으로-

Purpose: This study examined the relationship between acculturation stress, social support, and mental health among expatriates in UAE hospitals. Methods: Data were collected from a convenience sample of 77 expatriates in UAE from May 1 to September 30, 2016. Structured questionnaires measured the degree of acculturation stress, social support, and mental health. Data analysis was conducted using the Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, and Spearman rank-order correlation coefficient. Results: Mental health was associated with acculturation stress except social support. Mental health was significantly related to four variables: expatriates’ gender, religion, motivation to expatriate, and intention to extend expatriation. However, acculturation stress was significantly related to three variables: expatriates’ gender, pre-education, and intention to extend expatriation. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of providing interventions for the acculturation stress and mental health of expatriates in the UAE. Pre-education for new expatriates is also essential to reduce their acculturation stress.