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“The Chance to Look, to Examine, to Explore”: A Qualitative Study of Intercultural Contact and Cultural Identity Exploration for Muslim Immigrants

Published Online:December 15, 2020https://doi.org/10.1037/ipp0000122

Abstract

The current investigation sought to better understand the role individuals play in navigating their own cultural identity development during the process of acculturation. To this end, a qualitative methodology was used to examine how a specific group of individuals negotiate identity changes in the face of intercultural contact. In-depth interviews concerning processes of identity management and development were conducted with a sample of 11 Muslim women (8 Malay and 3 Saudi Arabian) permanently residing in New Zealand. Using applied thematic analysis, emergent themes were identified, and these were then analyzed using the concepts of “self-awareness” and “agency” to understand and structure how these individuals perceive and position themselves throughout their acculturation experiences. Findings showed that participants’ typical descriptions of intercultural encounters reflected active processes of both negotiating and managing cultural perspectives, with participants often citing acculturation as initiating questioning of identity positions. Furthermore, the findings showed an interplay between awareness of one’s cultural worldview and the degree of perceived agency felt in directing the relationship between culture and the construction of identity. This study highlights the importance of considering the active role individuals play in developing and defining their cultural identities during the process of acculturation.

Impact and Implications

This article examines the acculturation experiences of Muslim women and investigates how awareness of one’s cultural background and worldview alongside agency experienced in making choices about identity positions can frame these processes in meaningful ways. As such, the study predominantly aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3, in that it focuses on promoting well-being and explorations of cultural identity from the lived experiences of migrant women. Furthermore, the results illuminate empowered migration journeys among Muslim women, effectively also addressing important elements of Sustainable Development Goal 5.

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