INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN SECONDARY EDUCATION IN THE CONTEXT OF SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK: DIFFICULTIES, NEEDS AND FUTURE EXPECTATIONS IN THE PSYCHOSOCIAL FIELD

Abstract

The aim of this study is to reveal the psychosocial problems, needs and expectations of international students studying at secondary education level in Turkey. In order to explore the problems and needs in depth, the research was designed with a qualitative design. Before the research, a literature review was made and then interview form questions were prepared. The research data were obtained from 14 parents of international students randomly selected from the imam hatip high school, which has a significant number of international students in Üsküdar district of Istanbul, and 28 teachers and school administrators who attend the courses of international students. The answers from the questions for the research purposes were coded under 3 themes: difficulties experienced in the psychosocial field studies to increase adaptation and future expectations. According to the families of international students, international students experience problems such as being bullied, withdrawn, mocked, phone addiction and absenteeism from school. According to the teachers/school administrators who attend the classes of international students, international students experience various problems in psychosocial areas such as longing for family, the need for protection and support, loneliness, grouping among themselves, peer pressure, differences in the use of gestures and mimics, and cultural differences. According to the results of the research, it is seen that it is important for teachers and school administrators to support and take care of the international students' needs while approaching them. Excessively positive approaches, such as excessively negative behaviors, can also create problems and attract the reaction of other students. The research reveals that it is necessary to prepare and implement protective-preventive programs for international students by the school social service and guidance units in order to solve the problems experienced by international students and meet their needs