For my CAPS blog #4, I chose to write about the
U-Curve theory of immigration. I chose this because it embodies the experience
of moving to another country, as well as another culture pretty accurately. In
all three stories provided in the prompt, one aspect of this U-Curve theory has
been proven true. All three of these stories also explain how culture shock, a
part of the U-Curve Theory, affected these people’s lives in some good, but
mostly not so good ways. The U-Curve theory of immigration fully encompasses the
trials and tribulations of the immigrant on all levels, good and bad. For
someone to voluntarily or involuntarily move from their home country they must
be prepared to face differences in their everyday life, as well as adapt to
them.
The story that I felt really expressed the truth
behind the U-Curve theory was the one of Idex Kusukika. Although this man did
not come to United States on good terms, he surely felt the effects of Culture
shock. Kusukika left his home country of Congo to go to Mali by gaining refugee
status. He then travelled to the United States, Lincoln to be exact. I can’t be
certain but I would assume coming to the United states after being a refugee in
Africa would be an exciting and daunting feeling at the same time. This would be
the first part of the U-Curve theory. The next part of the U-Curve theory would
be culture shock, and trying to adapt to this new place. Kusukika said himself,
"The most
difficult thing is to be integrated, when people come, we have many problems."
This is the bottom of the “U” so to speak, and trying to adapt to a new life
must be one of the most difficult things a person can do. Although, Kususika has
made progress towards becoming integrated in America. The story claims that he
has gotten a job in Lincoln, as well as attended a dinner for fellow refugees
where they can tell their stories. He has not completely become interwoven in
American society but this is a large step, and also represents the other side of
the U-Curve theory model. His ability to learn English and be part of the
workforce is a testament to his integration in America.
Although his story cannot be fully credited to
resettlement agencies because it takes drive and determination to come this far,
some of the transitions made are due in part to resettlement agencies such as
“The Refugee Action Network” definitely help. These agencies use intercultural
communication to better help refugees integrate into society. An example from
this story would be “Relationships between humans”. Although individualism is
held highly in European culture, it is not so much in other parts of the world.
This network realizes this, and holds dinners like the one Kusukika attended to
help regain the sense of togetherness and empathy that these refugees would feel
at home. It also allows them to open up to other human beings, which is
something that is difficult at first for involuntary
immigrants.
I like your connection and explanation of the U-curve in relation to his experience. It is really clear when you look at the stages that he experienced, and how this challenge goes along with a pattern that people from all different cultural identities can experience. I think the agencies do assist in this transition greatly, and you are correct to point out that the people have to make the first step of this challenging decision.
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