Risk Factors Associated with Culture Shock among Asylum Seekers from Darfur.

The aim of this study was to determine the severity and risk factors of culture shock in Darfuri asylum seekers living in Israel. A sample of 340 asylum seekers was measured on socio-demographic factors, living difficulties, exposure to enroute trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), perceived discrimination and the Culture Shock Questionnaire (CSQ). Higher levels of culture shock were observed in females, males with PTSD and those from rural origin who experienced traumatic events en route. In addition, culture shock scores were higher for asylum seekers who, despite receiving legal aid, were denied a temporary refugee status. Greater perceived discrimination and higher frequency of experiencing lack of food made unique and meaningful contributions to culture shock. Care programmes should target sub-groups at risk, including females and those who suffer from PTSD, and focus on improving living conditions and posttraumatic stress reactions to war experiences in order to facilitate adjustment of asylum seekers to the new society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]