Acculturation and First-Generation Nepali Immigrants
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Authors
Adhikari, Sadhana
Issue Date
2002
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to understand the acculturation process among first-generation Nepali immigrants in the United States. This research will be used ultimately to develop a training manual for Nepali immigrants who are intending to immigrate to the U.S and also for mental health professionals working with Nepali immigrants seeking mental health services.
A literature review of acculturation studies indicate that there are few studies of Asian Indian immigrants and that no studies have been done on first generation Nepali immigrants. Questions were asked of eight Nepali immigrants about the following topics: a) their perceptions of cultural differences between Americans and Nepalis, b) misunderstandings caused by differences, c) discomfort experienced as a result of these misunderstandings, d) emotional, physical, or psychological distress experienced since coming to the United States, and e) whether or not the stress prompted the participants to seek professional help. Most participants reported initial feelings of isolation, intense homesickness, anxiety, and some depression upon coming to the United States, but did not seek professional help because either of the cost or they were unaware that the resource was available. After two years, most are developing the independence and self-reliance skills necessary to cope with American life. Narrative and relational-cultural therapy modalities might be useful for therapists when working with this population.