Social
Immigrants often hold multiple identities simultaneously, including ethnic, national, religious, and social group identities¹.
Identity is shaped by attitudes, beliefs, worldviews, and self-concept².
It can be defined as awareness of and emotional connection to group membership, which guides beliefs and behaviors³.
Living outside their country of origin often requires immigrants to balance ties to their homeland while integrating into the host culture⁴.
These overlapping identities can sometimes conflict, influencing psychological and social well-being¹.
Maintaining a dual identity (heritage + host) strengthens belonging, supports integration, and builds resilience against discrimination⁵.
New immigrants often first find comfort in their ethnic communities before developing a sense of belonging in the host society⁶.
Immigrant service agencies and religious institutions provide safe spaces, programs, and community resources that support integration⁶.
Social integration can be difficult at first, but it can become easier with community support and the help of these resources:
Community groups and events where immigrants can connect and share experiences
Advice and resources for immigrants to join local meetup groups and build community
Global community for immigrants and expats to connect and find support
Join Facebook groups where immigrants connect, share experiences, and find support
Catholic Charities LA provides social support programs to help immigrants and refugees integrate
Community centers focused on immigrant integration and social programming
Cultural or refugee community organizations that provide social services, gatherings, and culturally specific events
Ethnic or cultural community organizations that connect immigrants from similar backgrounds
¹ Verkuyten et al., 2019
² Haslam, 2016; Verkuyten et al., 2019
³ Hogg, 2016; Tajfel & Turner, 1979
⁴ Berry et al., 2006; Verkuyten et al., 2019
⁵ Fleischmann & Verkuyten, 2016
⁶ Salami et al., 2019