Prioritising Family Needs: A Grounded Theory of Acculturation for Sub-Saharan African Migrant Families in Australia

Peter Akosah-Twumasi, Faith Alele, Amy M. Smith, Theophilus I. Emeto, Daniel Lindsay, Komla Tsey and Bunmi S. Malau-Aduli
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Peter Akosah-Twumasi: College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia
Faith Alele: College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia
Amy M. Smith: College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia
Theophilus I. Emeto: College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia
Daniel Lindsay: College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia
Komla Tsey: College of Arts, Society and Education, James Cook University, Cairns QLD 4870, Australia
Bunmi S. Malau-Aduli: College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia

Social Sciences, 2020, vol. 9, issue 2, 1-16

Abstract: Pre-existing acculturation models have focused on individual orientation and may not be fully applicable to African migrants due to their strong connection to family. In this study, we utilised qualitative semi-structured interviews to explore how 22 migrant families from eight sub-Saharan African representative countries: Congo, Eritrea, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Uganda and Zimbabwe, who now reside in Townsville, Australia experienced the acculturation process. Data were analysed at the family unit level using the three steps of grounded theory method: open, axial and selective coding. The theory derived illustrates that the acculturation process involves two major phases (maintaining core moral values and attaining a sense of belonging) within which six categories were identified. Three of the categories were related to deeply held heritage values and beliefs (family relationships, societal expectations and cultural norms), while the other three (religious beliefs, socio-economic gains and educational values) indicated integration with the host culture. These categories constitute central concerns for the participants and demonstrate what matters to them as a family unit and not as individuals. We conclude that a selective process of “prioritising family needs” determines the acculturation strategy of sub-Saharan African migrant families, aiding the fulfilment of their migration goals, ensuring effective functioning of the family unit, and enabling them to be productive members of their local community.

Keywords: individualistic; collectivist; cultural values; acculturation strategy; sub-Saharan Africa; family needs; grounded theory (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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