Balancing act: an exploration of the impacts of acculturation amongst first-generation Indian immigrant youths in Canada

This study explores the acculturative stressors experienced by first-generation Indian immigrant youth in Canada, focusing on cognitive incongruence between home and host cultures. Using a mixed-method approach, qualitative interviews and surveys were conducted with six Indian individuals to examine cultural adaptation, socialization, and psychological well-being. Findings highlight the tension between maintaining cultural heritage and integrating into Canadian society, with challenges including social isolation, differing cultural norms, and subtle racial biases based on Indian group identity. Participants valued familial and communal bonds from their home culture but struggled with rigid societal expectations and a perceived loss of social spontaneity in Canada. While most reported a sense of belonging, internal conflicts, and external pressures influenced their adaptation. The study underscores the need for culturally responsive policies and support systems to ease integration and reduce acculturative stress. Future research should explore long-term adaptation and identity negotiation among South Asian immigrants.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts (MA)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Criminology

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Shah, Kriti

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Dhungana Sainju, Karla

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/1938

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/1938