[Acculturation, identity and well-being: the adjustment of Somalian refugees]

This study examines the links between acculturation and psychological adjustment of 94 Somalian refugee women. On a group level, the preferred mode of acculturation is integration. Somalian women who have lived the longest in Canada identify more as Canadians and perceive more discrimination against themselves and against Somalians in general. Moreover, the endorsement of the mode of acculturation by integration implies a refusal of other modes such as assimilation, rejection and marginalization. Important links are also established between age, the desire to take part in Canadian society and mental health. Young women especially distinguish themselves from the group as they have a tendency to have a higher level of depression. Moreover, those refugees who have emigrated for political reasons wish to return to their homeland and are less satisfied with their life in Canada.