Associations between demographic factors and perceived acculturative stress among African migrants in Germany

Abstract

This study investigated the nature and extent of the associations between demographic variables and acculturative stress of African migrants in Germany with the premise that living in Germany would be stressful for Africans. Data from 85 migrants from the general population and prisons showed that 73.4% were males and 26.6% females with age ranging from 18 to 46 years. Participants completed the MAQ used in assessing acculturative stress.

Results from hierarchical regression analysis showed that: majority of Africans reported racial discrimination, negative situation, a precarious job and a huge volume of daily hassles as predominant problems experienced in Germany. Acculturative stress increased with duration of stay in Germany. Family fragmentation and being separated from one’s spouse was a strong predictor of acculturative stress. Being an economic refugee was also associated with acculturative stress. Recommendations were made in the light of the conclusions made in the study.