Date of Award
4-2013
Document Type
Thesis
Primary Advisor
Dr. Rosalind Goodrich
Abstract
This study examines the effects of time spent interacting with people of a different culture on ethnocentrism levels, within the context of intercultural short-term missions (STM). STM is defined as any international altruistic volunteerism lasting 11 months or less, and includes both spreading of Christianity and various poverty alleviation efforts. Data were collected by means of a survey measuring ethnocentrism levels, which was sent to the student body of Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. An ANOVA was conducted to analyze a possible relationship between the time spent in intercultural interaction (determined by length of trip) and ethnocentrism levels (determined by survey responses). The relationship between the two variables was not statistically significant, and possible reasons for this are discussed. Suggestions for further research regarding ethnocentrism are presented. Information regarding the dangers of ethnocentrism and a specific application for Southeastern University and its missions program are both discussed in Appendix A. For Southeastern University readers who are unfamiliar with APA format of experimental research, it is recommended to read Chapter One (Introduction), Chapter Two (Literature Review), and Appendix A (Application).
Recommended Citation
Hill, Rachel A., "Ethnocentrism in Short-Term Missions: Time Spent Abroad and Its Effect on Cultural Attitudes" (2013). Selected Honors Theses. 6.
https://firescholars.seu.edu/honors/6