Journal of Intercultural Communication Research
Volume 37, Issue 1, 2008, Pages 43-64

Navigating dialectic contradictions experienced by female african refugees during cross-cultural adaptation (Article)

Semlak J.L. , Pearson J.C.* , Amundson N.G. , Kudak A.D.H.
  • a Department of Communication at North Dakota State University, United States
  • b Department of Communication at North Dakota State University, United States
  • c Department of Communication at North Dakota State University, United States
  • d Department of Communication at North Dakota State University, United States

Abstract

An increasing number of new Americans are refugees who have fled persecution, war, and the loss of basic human rights. The current study examines the dialectical tensions experienced by female African refugees during the cross-cultural adaptation process. Twelve female African refugees participated in two focus groups, uncovering the communication challenges experienced when relocating to the United States. These women navigate contradictions of positive and negative features of their new lives, of being included and excluded, of being accepted and rejected, and of the real and ideal. Their narratives are understood through the lens of cross-cultural adaptation and dialectical theory. The authors wish to thank Lori J. DeWitt, David H. Kahl, Jr., Adam W. Tyma, and Kelly E. Wolf for assistance collecting data for this project. © 2008 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Author Keywords

Relational Dialectic Theory Cross-cultural adaptation focus groups Refugees Acculturation

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-70849124640&doi=10.1080%2f17475750802077396&partnerID=40&md5=a7921a0d37b55734e36df45883f9caad
DOI: 10.1080/17475750802077396
ISSN: 17475759
Cited by: 10
Original Language: English