Social Identity Experiences of Newcomers In Two Australian Small Rural Communities: Working to Belong.

Small rural communities need to attract and keep newcomers to maintain population, to retain services and community capacity to revitalise. However, they are also known to commonly resist and exclude newcomers, with existing residents often blaming the newcomers for unsuccessful integration. In this research 89 interviews were conducted in two small rural Australian communities to understand the social experiences of newcomers and the tactics they use to fit in and belong. Social identity theory and three layers of critical discourse analysis were used for analysis. It was found that newcomers actively seek local social connections that affirm self-esteem, inform them of local cultural social codes, including social expectations and hierarchies. Some adopt or adapt to local norms. Some seek to demonstrate social merit through community participation and contributions. However established residents often ignore, minimise, disparage or undermine newcomer efforts. The degree of welcome and social induction found by newcomers shaped their attitudes to the community. An active culture of welcome fostered positive social outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]