Reviewing and revising Black et al’s adjustment model(s)

Abstract

Previous reviews of Black et al’s expatriation and repatriation adjustment models have evaluated the influence and reliability of the models. In this paper, we examine the changing and varied nature of engagement with the models in journal articles on international adjustment to investigate the implications of contemporary changes among expatriates and their behaviours and experiences. 699 peer-reviewed academic articles published between 1991 and 2021 were systematically reviewed. Our analysis reveals that while more than 80% of the articles referenced their model(s), only a third explicitly applied the model(s). Drawing on our findings, we advance a revised version of Black et al’s conceptual framework, which integrates their models into a combined stage-adjustment model applicable to both assigned expatriates (AEs) and non-assigned expatriates (NAEs).