The Impact of Perceived Racism on the Mental Health and Academic Motivation of International Students in Kerala

The study explores the psychosocial issues of international students studying in Kerala, and the impact of perceived racism on their mental well-being and academic motivation. Male and female international students (N=32) studying various disciplines under the universities in Kerala were selected for the study through convenience sampling. 10 participants were selected through purposive sampling from the sample population of 32 for a telephonic interview. Content analysis was used for discerning their responses. They reportedlack of inclusion in the classroom, concerns regarding language barriers, academic demotivation, discrimination, and dissatisfaction. Questionnaires were distributed to all the 32participants to measure their perceived racism, academic motivation and mental health.Correlation and t-test were used for statistical analysis. Perceived racism was found to have significant relationships with multiple aspects of mental health and academic motivation, indicating a negative impact on the latter aspects. Being one of the earliest studies concerning the well-being of international students in Kerala, this study highlights the need for further research in the area to better comprehend the problems and resolve them.