In my work I realize that many of the changes resulting from a migration can be underestimated. Most people don't seem to understand what a migration can really mean, nor can they imagine the possible impacts that this change can have on their lives.
What is migration anyway? I really like the definition described in the book "Migrationssoziologie" by Ingrid Oswald. According to her, migration is not just a physical change, but involves the displacement of the central point of life, encompassing a change of place, of the network of relationships and the contact with new experiences of limits and borders, whether physical or personal.
The reasons that lead to the decision to migrate and the expectations of everyone involved are very individual and influence the entire process and its outcome. Some change countries in order to survive, for example when they are affected by environmental disasters and wars. Others for economic reasons, such as fighting unemployment and dreaming of a “better life”. Religious or ethnic persecution in the country of origin can also be reasons for migration. As well as personal motivation, which can relate to work, studies, marriage, relationships or family, for example. At my appointments, I often encounter a combination of personal motivation and economic reasons.
Another factor to carefully consider is the nature of the migration. A temporary migration is very different from a permanent migration. If you are planning to stay in the new country for a limited time, the person may not show any interest in "settling down" and may not be very attached to the locals. Or you can try to get the most out of the experience by exploring the new surroundings intensively through tours and activities, in addition to as much contact with the locals as possible. In a permanent migration, the focus is almost always on the search for roots.
Voluntary migrants typically participate more actively in the decision-making process about factors accompanying change and become more open to the new culture, which in the case of forced migration is, if possible, much more constrained.
We must also consider the legality of migration. The legalization of documents in the receiving country opens doors for migrants and facilitates their integration. On the other hand, secrecy can lead the migrant to choose seclusion, which can create feelings of exclusion and persistent fear. Even when necessary, the person can often avoid seeking help for fear of, for example, being denounced and deported, which could lead to or worsen mental and health problems.
As we can see, each migration is unique depending on the elements that make it up. Added to this are the individual factors that every migrant takes with them when they move to another country: their past, history, family relationships, personality traits, personal characteristics and expectations.
When we talk about migration, there are so many elements involved that it is practically impossible not to cover each story individually. And we have to approach every case with this respect for individuality. I hear a lot of questions about whether the migration will "work". And I answer by asking what it means to "train". When we put aside comparisons to other people's stories and focus on our own lives, we can reevaluate our expectations, reconsider our journey, and chart the steps necessary to get where we want to be.
Achieving goals in a new country may require stepping back a little, preparing, taking a breather. And maybe start small or start fresh. This is not a sign of weakness but of strength. It's about managing expectations, learning from mistakes and knowing how to recognize every small step, every effort, every success along the way. And go on. je.
*Source: Platzer, M. (2012). Migration and Identity: Identity change during the migration process. AV academic publisher.
Graziela Velardo Birrer
Psychologische Beraterin
Beraterin sGfB / Dipl.-Ing. Körperzentrierte Psychologische Beraterin IKP
www.grazielabirer.com