Mental Well-Being of Chinese International Students in Thai Universities Throughout the Post-Pandemic Era

This study, employing a cross-sectional survey design, probes the mental well-being of Chinese International students enrolled in Thai higher-education institutions during the post-COVID-19 period. The investigation utilised Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale to assess six dimensions—autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, positive relations with others, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. A total of 389 questionnaires were distributed, of which 347 were valid for analysis. The findings reveal salient disparities in psychological well-being across demographic categories. First, gender differences emerged for self-acceptance. Secondly, age significantly influenced environmental mastery, positive relations with others, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. Thirdly, the year of study was associated with variations in environmental mastery, positive relations with others, and self-acceptance. Finally, the length of residence in Thailand predicted differential outcomes in environmental mastery, personal growth, and self-acceptance. These results underscore the heterogeneous mental well-being profiles of Chinese students in Thai universities and suggest the exigency of tailored support strategies attentive to gender, age, academic seniority, and local acculturation. Article visualizations: