Family therapy with Eastern European immigrants: recommendations for practice

Abstract

Purpose

The increased number of Eastern European immigrants provides many opportunities to work with these immigrants and issues related to immigration. The purpose of this article is to examine Eastern European immigrants' adaptation patterns and provide recommendations for family therapy working with the group.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 120 Eastern European immigrants. Data analysis was conducted using constant comparisons.

Findings

Common immigration experiences illustrating the need for services have been identified, along with barriers that might prevent the use of social services. The results indicate similarities and differences among the different groups regarding their immigration experience and adaptation to the host society.

Originality/value

Recommendations for overcoming the service‐use barriers and conducting family therapy with these immigrants are provided.

Citation

Robila, M. and Sandberg, J. (2011), "Family therapy with Eastern European immigrants: recommendations for practice", International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, Vol. 7 No. 4, pp. 182-196. https://doi.org/10.1108/17479891111206319