Study 1 focused on the influence of collectivistic cultural values among first - and second - generation immigrants in the United Kingdom, but did not take into account
the role of acculturation beyond assessing generational status.
Finally, the diversity that exists at Queens College has led my research team to develop research projects that address the
role of culture and
acculturation in people's emotional and attachment experiences.
The process
of non-voluntary immigration, transitioning and acculturating to a new country may have a negative impact on the mental health
of immigrants.1 — 3 Postmigration factors (eg, stress, lack
of social capital, social isolation and loss
of social network) as well as
acculturation problems and experiences
of discrimination in the host country affect the mental health
of the parents and the children.4 5 Moreover, immigrant parents face challenges concerning their
role and responsibilities as parents while adjusting to the host country, all
of which tend to create stress in parenting.1 3 6 The mental health problems
of parents have been reported to be a risk factor for children's behavioural problems and may negatively affect the parent — child attachment and their relationship.7 8 Studies have also shown that parents with mental health problems have a low perceived sense
of competence in parenting and may lack the ability to employ positive parenting practises.9 10