Coping strategies refer to the methods migrants use to manage the psychological pressures that come with the process of cultural adaptation. Within the framework of John W. Berry’s acculturation model (integration, assimilation, separation, and marginalization), these strategies are shaped by individuals’ adaptation choices, cultural context, and available resources. This section explores coping mechanisms for dealing with migration-related stress in each of Berry’s four acculturation strategies, focusing on the specific methods, their effectiveness, and examples from both Iranian and non-Iranian migrants. It also analyzes their impact on mental health. If you haven’t read or have forgotten Part Four, it is recommended to read or review it first for better understanding.
Types of Coping
Coping strategies are generally divided into two main categories:
- Problem-focused coping, which involves actively addressing or reducing the source of stress (such as learning a new language or finding a job).
- Emotion-focused coping, which involves managing the emotional response to stress without directly changing the situation (such as spiritual practices or talking to friends).
In Berry’s model, the choice of coping method depends on the type of acculturation adopted and the individual’s personal and social resources.
- Integration
Coping Strategies
Problem-focused: Learning the host country’s language, building diverse social networks, and acquiring job skills that facilitate interaction with both cultures.
Emotion-focused: Relying on support from family and co-nationals to maintain emotional balance and using cultural activities (such as music or art) to relieve tension.
Integration allows migrants to draw from both their heritage and the host culture, which reduces stress and increases psychological flexibility. This strategy often leads to rapid stress reduction and improved mental health outcomes. For example, lower rates of depression and anxiety may be observed due to broad social support and a sense of control.
Example: An Iranian student in Canada who attends English classes (problem-focused) and talks with family about challenges (emotion-focused) experiences lower stress levels.
Challenges:
Requires time and resources (e.g., education), which may initially increase stress but ultimately result in long-term benefits.
- Assimilation
Coping Strategies
Problem-focused: Fully adopting host society norms, altering behavior (e.g., clothing or name), and severing ties with the original culture to avoid conflict.
Emotion-focused: Seeking validation from the host community, suppressing emotions related to cultural loss, and focusing on success in the new environment.
Assimilation reduces stress related to discrimination or isolation by minimizing cultural differences. However, it can lead to a loss of identity. While it may be effective in the short term, it can cause new stress if there’s family resistance or feelings of alienation.
When assimilation is voluntary, social anxiety tends to decrease. But if it’s forced, it may lead to depression or substance abuse.
Examples:
An Iranian migrant in Sweden who changes their name and distances themselves from the Iranian community (problem-focused) and suppresses feelings of loss (emotion-focused) might temporarily reduce stress but eventually feel identity loss.
An Iranian migrant in Australia who fully adopts Western culture and makes new friends might initially feel at ease but later face family conflict.
Challenges:
Loss of ethnic support networks can make the individual more vulnerable to new stressors.
- Separation
Coping Strategies
Problem-focused: Limiting interaction with the host society, relying on ethnic communities for daily needs (e.g., jobs or shopping), and preserving traditions.
