The effect of content of stereotypes on choice of acculturation strategies

In contemporary society, many individuals undergo forced or voluntary migration in pursuit of better living conditions. As a result, the relationship between two or more cultures have become increasingly common, along with the challenges associated with it. Consequently, the topics related to acculturation become more popular nowadays. Thus, this dissertation aims to check the effect of ethnic stereotypes on a choice of acculturation strategies of young Ahiska Turks (ages 16–18) living in Kazakhstan. The central hypothesis posits that transforming negative ethnic stereotypes into positive ones can significantly support the integration process. To investigate this hypothesis, three separate studies were conducted, each with its own objectives and methodology. Study 1 examined the relationship between negative auto stereotypes and assimilation, as well as the relationship between negative hetero stereotypes and separation. Additionally, it sought to identify the most commonly used acculturation strategies among young Ahiska Turks. The study involved 125 participants from Belinskiy and Pushkin Schools and employed the Acculturation Attitude Scale, the Stereotype Content Model Scale, and a Demographic Form. The results indicated that negative auto stereotypes were positively associated with assimilation, while negative hetero stereotypes were linked to separation. Moreover, it was found that integration emerged as the most preferred acculturation strategy, followed by separation. Assimilation was less common, and only three participants were identified as marginalized; thus, they were excluded from further participation. Based on these results, two main groups were formed: assimilated and separated. Study 2 aimed to design and implement intervention programs (AYBU UNITY) for both groups (10 participants per group) to reduce negative ethnic stereotypes and promote integration. A specific training programs using a mentoring approach was applied. Due to the small sample size, data from Study 1 and Study 2 were analysed using Bayesian analysis. The results of analysis show that the intervention program have positive outcomes: participants from both groups successfully transformed their negative ethnic stereotypes into positive ones, leading to improved integration into the host society. Study 3 consisted of in-depth interviews with 20 participants and 20 of their parents to assess the real-life impact of the intervention. Thematic analysis was applied to explore changes in three domains: psychological changes, behavioural changes, and changes in family. Overall, the findings underscore the critical influence of ethnic stereotypes on acculturation strategy choices. They also demonstrate that well-structured intervention programs can play a pivotal role in transforming negative stereotypes, thereby facilitating the successful integration of migrant youth into the host community.