The Expectations and Experiences of a Sojourning Temporary Resident Abroad: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between the expectations of a group of sojourning Americans before they came to England, and their experience 6 months after arriving. Nearly 60 Americans were contacted before leaving and completed two questionnaires, one relating to their expectations and the other a measure of mental health. These expectations were related to various demographic variables, especially mental health. After 6 months, a number of sojourners were contacted who filled out a similar pair of questionnaires. Although there were few differences between expectations and experiences, mental health was associated with the larger differences between expectations and experiences. The results are discussed in terms of self-fulfilling prophecies. Limitations of the study are also discussed.

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