FACEBOOK USAGE AND ADAPTATION BY EXPATEIATES IN THAILAND.

      Studies have demonstrated that people who travel abroad to reside in foreign countries often face difficulties in adapting. To cope with unfamiliar milieus, people need to seek information and interact with the host population. This study investigated, via an online survey of 340 Thailand-based expatriates, the role of Facebook in assisting expatriates to adapt in Thailand. The results revealed that there were statistically significant differences in adaptation among expatriates who seek information and interact socially via Facebook. The study also found a difference in adaptation between males and females, but no differences were found with regard to age, continent of origin, Thai language competence and length of residence. In light of these findings, expatriates should embrace and harness Facebook to seek information and interact with the host population, as a means of better adapting to life in Thailand. The implications for policy and future research are discussed.