Creativity can be enhanced by experiencing a different culture than the culture itself, according to a study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, as quoted by Science Daily

Three studies examine aspects of different creativity in students who live abroad and who do not. Compared with the control group, who did not experience a different culture, participants in the different cultural groups provide evidence of more creative in a variety of standardized tests such properties. The results of this study indicate that multicultural learning is a critical component in the adaptation process, acting as a catalyst of creativity.

The researchers, William W. Maddux, Hajo Adam, and Adam D. Kolinsky, from Northwestern University, United States, believe that the key to enhance the creativity associated with open-minded approach to students in adjusting to new cultures. In a global world, where more people can gain multicultural experience than ever before, this study suggests that living abroad can be more beneficial than previously thought.