PERAN KOMUNIKASI INTERPERSONAL DALAM MENGATASI GEGAR BUDAYA

Studi Kasus Mahasiswa di Asrama Putra Balai Sriwijaya Sumatera Selatan, Yogyakarta

Abstract

This study aims to explore the role of interpersonal communication in addressing cultureshock experienced by students from South Sumatra residing at the Putra Dormitory ofSriwijaya Hall, Yogyakarta. Employing a qualitative approach with a case study method, datawere collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and documentation.The findings reveal that students experience culture shock in various forms, includinglanguage difficulties, differing social norms and values, and emotional alienation in theirdaily lives. In this context, interpersonal communication serves as an adaptive mechanismthat enables students to build social relationships, understand local cultural values, andreduce the risk of intercultural conflict. The communication strategies applied include theuse of Bahasa Indonesia as a neutral medium, learning local languages as a gesture ofcultural respect, employing humor to ease tension, and forming small communities as spacesfor sharing experiences and emotional support. Interpersonal communication also plays avital role in conflict resolution and in fostering social solidarity among dormitory residents.Nevertheless, communication challenges such as cultural stereotypes, differences incommunication styles, and initial awkwardness remain obstacles that must be navigated. Thisstudy concludes that the quality of interpersonal communication significantly influences thesuccess of cultural adaptation among migrant students. The implications of these findingshighlight the importance of cross-cultural communication training and the active involvementof dormitory administrators in fostering an inclusive and supportive social environment forstudents from diverse cultural backgrounds.