The role of guilt and ethnic identity in acculturation and emotional well-being among Israeli immigrants in the U.S

The present study examined the roles of guilt and ethnic identity in acculturation and adaptation among 97 Israeli immigrants residing in the U.S. A guilt measure, constructed for this study, revealed five factors associated with guilt for leaving the home country. Bi-dimensional scales, measuring identity and acculturation in the context of ethnic and host cultures, were used and multiple regression analyses were employed to test the association of these measures with immigrants' emotional well-being and satisfaction with immigration. In support of this study's hypotheses, results indicate that most Israeli immigrants present with strong ethnic identity that fits the "separation" strategy as suggested by the bi-dimensional model (Berry, 1990). In support of previous studies, integrated strategy was associated with greater satisfaction with immigration as compared with separated strategy. Contrary to previous studies, integrated strategy was not associated with emotional well-being when compared to separated strategy. Guilt for leaving the home country was found to be negatively associated with American acculturation, adaptation, and plans to re-emigrate to Israel, and positively associated with level of involvement in ethnic practices. Ethnic identity and level of involvement in ethnic practices were found to moderate the association between American acculturation and adaptation. Findings suggest that Israeli immigrants present with unique challenges in their acculturation process that affect their adaptation to life in the U.S. Specifically, their strong ethnic identity, high level of involvement in ethnic practices, and experiences of guilt for leaving their home country, interfere with their ability to integrate their ethnic and host identities and cultural practices, thus compromising their adaptation to life in the U.S. Findings are further discussed in the context of the bi-dimensional model (Berry, 1990). It is recommended that future studies differentiate between emotional well-being and satisfaction with immigration as separate measures of adaptation. Cross-cultural studies comparing the unique acculturation challenges of different ethnic groups and their experiences of guilt are also recommended.