Psychosocial problems faced during absorption of Russian-speaking new immigrants into Israel: a systematic approach

The problems faced by immigrants during the absorption process are multidimensional and require a systematic approach. According to the authors' theoretical perspective and clinical experience, two main principles determine the "facets" of absorption: search activity and self-esteem. The paper begins with a definition of search activity and its relationship to self-esteem and then discusses intrapsychic and environmental blocks to search activity and their effect on self-esteem. The paper concludes with a therapeutic approach toward restoration of search activity and self-esteem.