Impacts of Immigration
What is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs?
- Physiological Needs: This is the foundational level of the hierarchy and includes the most basic human needs necessary for survival. These needs include air, water, food, shelter, clothing, and sleep.
- Safety Needs: Once physiological needs are satisfied, people seek safety and security. This includes physical safety, as well as economic and social security
- Love and Belongingness Needs: After the physiological and safety needs are met, individuals seek social and emotional fulfillment. This includes the need for love, affection, friendship, and a sense of belonging within family, friends, and social groups. People want to feel accepted and connected.
- Esteem Needs: Esteem needs encompass both self-esteem (self-respect, confidence, and achievement) and the desire for respect and recognition from others.
- Self-Actualization: This is the highest level of the hierarchy. Self-actualization refers to the realization of one's full potential and the pursuit of personal growth, creativity, and self-fulfillment. It involves striving to become the best version of oneself and fulfilling one's unique talents and capabilities.
Accumulation Stress
Accumulated stress among immigrants, also referred to as immigrant stress or immigrant acculturation stress, is a complex and multifaceted issue that can affect individuals and families as they adapt to life in a new country.
- It arises from the challenges associated with the process of acculturation, which involves adjusting to a new culture, society, and way of life. Following are the main contributing factors for this kind of stress:
- Cultural Adjustment: Immigrants face difficulties in adapting to a new culture, which may include differences in language, customs, social norms, and values. (level 3)
- Language Barriers: Limited proficiency of the main language, English, can hinder communication, access to services, and employment. (level 3)
- Discrimination: Immigrants may encounter discrimination and prejudice based on their nationality, ethnicity, or immigration status. These experiences of discrimination can be emotionally distressing and contribute to stress. (level 2)
- Economic Challenges: Financial difficulties or unemployment can add significant stress to immigrants and their families. Economic stability is a crucial aspect of well-being (level 2)
- Family Separation: Some immigrants may experience family separation due to migration, which can lead to distress, loneliness, and concerns about their family members. (level 3)