Thartori, Voltisa and Ismail, Nik Ahmad Hisham (2024) Albania and Kosovo-Albania immigrants’ perceptions of mental well-being and the psychological challenges faced in Malaysia. Journal of Migration and Health, 10. pp. 1-11. E-ISSN 2666-6235
|
PDF (Journal)
- Published Version
Download (489kB) | Preview |
|
|
PDF (Scopus)
- Supplemental Material
Download (171kB) | Preview |
|
|
PDF (WOS)
- Supplemental Material
Download (294kB) | Preview |
Abstract
Background: Immigrants who relocate to a foreign country often face numerous stressors and challenges as they try to assimilate to a new culture. This transition can often have a significant impact on their mental well-being. In this qualitative study, we aim to explore and examine the life experiences of 16 Albanian and Kosovo-Albania immigrants who have settled in Malaysia, as well as those who previously resided in Malaysia but are now living in Australia and Albania. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate two main objectives: (i) to explore immigrants’ psychological problems and how they perceive and approach mental well-being; and (ii) to identify the challenges and barriers that immigrants face in Malaysia. Methods: The data was obtained using a qualitative phenomenological case study, using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed. Results: The study’s findings indicate that immigrants’ mental well-being is positively affected by inner peace, happiness, fulfilling family needs, a balanced life, and self-improvement. On the other hand, challenges related to visa and employment pass issues, difficulty in securing employment status, feeling like a foreigner, and lack of family support have a negative impact on their mental well-being. Implications: The study’s findings advocate for targeted support programmes to address the psychological challenges of Albanian immigrants. Prioritising inner peace and self-improvement benefits their mental well-being. Policymakers are encouraged to prioritise reducing employment pass difficulties and fostering an inclusive job market to improve employment opportunities for this community.
| Item Type: | Article (Journal) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Immigrants, Mental wellbeing, Foreigner, Challenges and barriers of immigrants |
| Subjects: | L Education > LA History of education |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | Kulliyyah of Education > Department of Educational Psychology & Counseling Kulliyyah of Education |
| Depositing User: | PROFESSOR DR. NIK AHMAD HISHAM ISMAIL |
| Date Deposited: | 09 Jul 2024 09:53 |
| Last Modified: | 09 Jul 2024 15:12 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/113016 |
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |
Download Statistics
Download Statistics