Identification without communication? A qualitative study on the identification proces of Syrian refugees with the Dutch society

Abstract

This thesis further develops Berry’s conceptual acculturation model (2001) by examining which factors affect the identification process of Syrian refugees with the Dutch society. On the basis of a qualitative interpretive methodological approach, this study has examined the individual intrasubjective experiences of Syrian newcomers in the Netherlands. The study revealed that the attitudes of members of the Dutch society and the Syrian newcomers play an important role in the identification process. However, contrary to Berry’s argumentation, this study argues that these two factors alone are not sufficient to explain the identification process. Other factors, such as psychological difficulties and differences in communication customs, play an important role as well and should be taken into account. A lack of interpersonal communication often prevents the development of meaningful relationships and hinders the identification process of Syrians and the Dutch society. This study’s findings support the integration paradox theory which states that newcomers who are more exposed to the Dutch society generally experience more discrimination and rejection and are more likely to distance themselves from the Dutch society in return.

Keywords: identification, acculturation, refugees, attitudes, Othering, integration paradox