The socio-cultural cognition of immigrants’ acculturation and well-being

This study explored how socio-cognitive and cultural variables influence subjective well-being in African immigrants (from Maghreb, Senegal and Madagascar) in Rome (Italy). A questionnaire was administered measuring immigrants’ acculturation strategies expressed in terms of cultural preferences and participations, social context and need for cognitive closure (Kruglanski & Webster, 1996). The research found support for the significant relationship between immigrants’ acculturation strategies and psychological adaptation. The strategy of integration is confirmed to be the less stressful than other acculturation strategies. The relationship between acculturation strategies and subjective well-being is moderated by individuals’ need for cognitive closure the migrant’s social reality at entry, and initial plans.