Despite the high rate of migration to Italy, there are still no comprehensive studies of psychosocial distress in the different groups of immigrants. The objective of the present study was to investigate the psychosocial status of immigrants living in Bologna (Italy). We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 396 immigrants (313 males and 83 females) from Africa, Asia and eastern Europe (Senegalese, Moroccans, Tunisians, Pakistanis, Kosovars and Roma) using questionnaires administered by trained anthropologists. Except for Tunisians, the psychological distress and discomfort of the immigrant groups are low, and the perception of their quality of life and well-being is good. In the groups that have spent more time in Italy, the percentage of subjects wishing to return to their native country is generally higher. Immigrants living in Bologna exhibit a good psychosocial state and seem to have positively interacted with their new environment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Italy immigrants Psychosocial indicators

anthropology Pakistan immigrant social psychology Morocco human Asia controlled study mental stress social interaction Eastern Europe quality of life psychological well being Senegal male female Africa questionnaire Article major clinical study adult Social Environment distress syndrome Italy Tunisia social behavior health survey