J Korean Acad Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs.  2010 Dec;19(4):466-474. 10.12934/jkpmhn.2010.19.4.466.

Embracing New Lives as Korean Immigrants in Canada: A Grounded Theory

• Bae J
• Panuncio R

• KMID: 2321881
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12934/jkpmhn.2010.19.4.466

Abstract

PURPOSE
Many Koreans go abroad for work, study or permanent migration. As they adapt to their new environment, they can suffer from various health problems. This article aims to gain a greater understanding of the experiences of Korean immigrants in Canada. This study reports the findings of a grounded theory study.
METHODS
In-depth unstructured interviews were conducted with 18 Korean immigrants in Vancouver. Data was audio-taped, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using constant comparative analysis.
RESULTS
Six main categories emerged: motivation, confronting, suffering, efforts to adapt, assimilation, and conflict. A basic social process model of adaptation to life in Canada was developed reflecting the inter-relationships between these categories. Data extracts was presented to illustrate the grounding of the model in participants accounts.
CONCLUSION
Immigrants need empathetic support and cultural understanding; this study increases the understanding of the Korean immigrant population, which should help in the design of effective coping strategies that consider the particular characteristics and problems of immigrants.

Keyword

Acculturation; Immigration; Life experiences; Quality of life; Qualitative research

MeSH Terms

Acculturation
Canada*
Emigrants and Immigrants*
Emigration and Immigration
Humans
Life Change Events
Motivation
Qualitative Research
Quality of Life

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 Phases of the Korean immigrant life experience in Canada.

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