Syrian Immigrants in Germany: An Exploration into Intercultural Competence, Self-awareness and Well-being of the Minority Group

Hateem Al Khuja () and Kaj Bjorkqvist ()
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Hateem Al Khuja: Abo Akademi University, Vasa, Finland
Kaj Bjorkqvist: Abo Akademi University, Vasa, Finland

Technium Social Sciences Journal, 2020, vol. 10, issue 1, 365-383

Abstract: The intercultural competence of Syrians who reside in Germany was assessed in order to shed light on patterns and behaviours that are practiced by them in a different culture. In total, 308 respondents completed the questionnaire, of which 54 (17.5%) were female and 254 (82.5%) were male. The mean age of the respondents was 30.5 years (SD = 7.5.). The respondents' level of private self-awareness, particularly self-reflection and insight, and their level of well-being (depression, anxiety and aggression) were assessed. Intercultural competence was measured using APTOC, a 15-item scale that consists of 3 main subscales, namely Openness to Other Cultures, Global Mindset, and Narrow Mindset. Private self-awareness was measured with the Self-reflection and Insight Scale. Well-being was measured with three subscales of the Brief Symptom Inventory, namely Depression, Anxiety and Hostility. Openness to other Cultures, Global Mindset and Narrow Mindset were found to have a significant impact on Self-reflection and the well-being determinants (except Anxiety). There was a significant negative correlation between Narrow Mindset and Insight. Conclusively, Intercultural competence was found to have a positive impact on Private Self-awareness (Self-reflection and Insight) and Well-being of Syrians who reside in Germany.

Keywords: Self-Awareness; Private Self-Awareness; Self-reflection; Insight; Intercultural Competence; Well-being; Syrians in Germany (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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