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Positive Changes and Appreciation of Life Among Economic Immigrants in Scotland

Author

Listed:
  • Anna Bak-Klimek

    (Edinburgh Napier University
    Edinburgh Napier University)

  • Thanos Karatzias

    (Edinburgh Napier University)

  • Lawrie Elliott

    (Glasgow Caledonian University)

  • Adele Dickson

    (Glasgow Caledonian University)

  • Rory MacLean

    (Edinburgh Napier University)

Abstract

Existing qualitative studies focussed predominantly on exploring immigrants’ stress, distress and coping aimed at reducing stress. Little attention has been paid to immigrants’ psychological growth or positive life changes. In the present study, the impact of post-migration experiences on well-being among economic immigrants has been explored. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 17 immigrants. Transcripts were analysed by a deductive and inductive thematic analysis. All immigrants reported positive life changes as a result of migration. Experiences related to migration helped immigrants rebuild their sense of self-worth and find ‘mental peace’ after living a demanding and burdensome life in Poland. Immigrants’ accounts also suggested that their thinking and behaviour patterns may be shaped by their cultural values and socio-economic background. Overall, the study indicates that migration is not merely a stressful life event but can have a positive impact on many aspects of immigrants’ lives and may provide opportunities for personal growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Anna Bak-Klimek & Thanos Karatzias & Lawrie Elliott & Adele Dickson & Rory MacLean, 2020. "Positive Changes and Appreciation of Life Among Economic Immigrants in Scotland," Journal of International Migration and Integration, Springer, vol. 21(1), pages 57-76, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joimai:v:21:y:2020:i:1:d:10.1007_s12134-019-00669-w
    DOI: 10.1007/s12134-019-00669-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Anna Bak-Klimek & Thanos Karatzias & Lawrie Elliott & Rory MacLean, 2018. "The Determinants of Well-Being Among Polish Economic Immigrants. Testing the Sustainable Happiness Model in Migrant Population," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 19(6), pages 1565-1588, August.
    2. Alex Michalos, 1985. "Multiple discrepancies theory (MDT)," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 16(4), pages 347-413, May.
    3. Lindert, Jutta & Ehrenstein, Ondine S. von & Priebe, Stefan & Mielck, Andreas & Brähler, Elmar, 2009. "Depression and anxiety in labor migrants and refugees - A systematic review and meta-analysis," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 69(2), pages 246-257, July.
    4. Drinkwater, Stephen & Eade, John & Garapich, Michal, 2006. "Poles Apart? EU Enlargement and the Labour Market Outcomes of Immigrants in the UK," IZA Discussion Papers 2410, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
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