2. cross cultural

• Moving to a new culture involves psychological adjustments like language acquisition, adapting to new values, and adjusting one’s self-concept. Emotional and social behaviors gradually align with the host culture, potentially causing stress.

Changing Attitudes Toward the Host Culture

• Migrants, including sojourners (temporary stay) and immigrants (long-term residence), undergo cultural adaptation phases.

Phases of Acculturation

• The U-shaped curve includes a honeymoon stage, culture shock, and adjustment stage. However, not all migrants experience a honeymoon stage, and some face immediate anxiety. Reverse culture shock can occur when returning home.

Influence of Host Culture

• Cultural, social, and individual factors affect acculturation. Time spent in a new culture isn't a reliable predictor of adjustment.

Cultural Distance

• Greater cultural distance increases acculturation difficulty. Language proficiency is crucial. Similar cultures facilitate adaptation.

Cultural Fit

• Compatibility with the host culture's values is essential. Extraversion's impact depends on cultural norms. Independent self-concept aids adaptation in individualistic cultures.

Acculturation Strategies

• Berry and Sam (1997) highlight engagement with the host culture and maintenance of heritage culture. Four strategies exist: integration, assimilation, separation, and marginalization. Integration is most favorable, marginalization most problematic.

Some Pitfalls of Acculturation

• The immigrant paradox reveals potential negative outcomes for acculturated children, like lower academic achievement and poorer health.

Article by John W. Berry: Immigrant youth. Acculturation, identity and adaptation

• Examines cultural change, identity formation, and adaptation in immigrant youth. Integration is linked to better outcomes. Perceived discrimination negatively affects adaptation and strategy choice.

Article by Dimitrova, Chasioris, and van de Vijver on Adjustment Outcomes of Immigrant Children and Youth in Europe

• Meta-analysis supports migration morbidity—immigrants experiencing more adjustment issues. Sociodemographic and contextual factors influence outcomes. Immigrant-friendly policies yield better results.