Self psychological development and treatment of Soviet Russian Jewish immigrants

Based on a review of prior research, the present study addresses some salient developmental and adaptational experiences of Soviet Jewish immigrants from the perspective of self psychology theory. Some aspects of childcaring and schooling, personality development, and adjustment to immigration and American culture are reviewed from a self psychological perspective. The impact of immigration is described as a loss of selfobject relationships and associated narcissistic injuries. Major themes in the psychotherapies of Soviet Jewish immigrants are understood as feelings of being unappreciated, unsupported, and unaccepted by the new society. This study then describes some cultural aspects that complicate therapeutic work with this population, as well as recommendations for treatment of Soviet Jewish immigrants.