Religiosity and psychosocial adjustment in international students: The case of Yemeni students in Turkey

International students are an integral part of educational institutions and represent the future strength of societies and nations. Migrating to another country for educational purposes presents various challenges for individuals, while religion and religiosity play a decisive role in shaping their attitudes towards life and new situations. This study investigates the relationship between religiosity and psychosocial adjustment among international students studying abroad and examines the effects of demographic factors on these variables. The sample consists of 413 Yemeni international students enrolled in various universities in Turkey. Using a descriptive correlational method, data were collected through surveys containing demographic information, the Centrality of Religiosity Scale, and the Psychosocial Adjustment Scale. Following the verification and analysis of the data, a high level of religiosity was observed among international students. Psychosocial adjustment levels ranged from moderate to high. The study confirmed a statistically significant positive relationship between religiosity and psychosocial adjustment. Results showed distinct relationships between dimensions of religiosity and gender; male students exhibited higher levels in religious knowledge and practice, while female students were more pronounced in the moral dimension of religiosity. No significant effects were found for age, marital status, and duration of residence on levels of religiosity. However, a statistically significant positive relationship was found between marital status and psychosocial adjustment, favoring married students. Additionally, slight but statistically insignificant differences were observed in psychosocial adjustment concerning gender, favoring males; age, favoring older students; duration of residence, favoring those with longer stays; educational level, favoring postgraduate students; and proficiency in the host country's language, favoring students fluent in Turkish. The study recommends strengthening the religious identity of international students and providing supportive environments for this purpose, enhancing cultural awareness, providing academic support, and developing Turkish language skills among international students. Further extensive research is suggested to understand the impact of religiosity on the psychosocial adjustment of international students more comprehensively.