The distinctive role of co-nationals in expatriate adjustment relative to host country nationals

This study examines the distinctive role of co-nationals relative to host country nationals (HCNs). Based on 39 semi-structured interviews with Chinese nurses in Australia, we find that co-nationals are better positioned, more willing or more likely than HCNs to provide certain forms of support for expatriate adjustment. However, co-national networks hinder expatriate interaction adjustment. This study provides theoretical insights into the significance of cultural diversity within expatriate networks for expatriate adjustment and extends the HCN-centric literature by highlighting the importance of co-national networks for expatriate adjustment. It also outlines relevant practical implications.