Self psychological analysis of the relationships among history, culture, immigration, and the psychological well -being of Polish-American migrants: The case study of Mr. P.

摘要

The population of Polish immigrants is continuously growing in the United States. However, members of this minority group represent a wide diversity of experiences and backgrounds due to the numerous transitions and political disruptions taking place in their motherland. Although their culture was discussed in literature numerous times, the majority of available research describes Poles who immigrated to America during or shortly after World War II. This knowledge is still useful; however, it does not reflect experiences of more recent Polish immigrants.;Therefore, the goal of this study was to explore interdependencies among culture, sociopolitical transformations taking place in Poland during the 80's and 90's, and the process of immigration. It was believed that unstable familial environment, along with the government's numerous failures in delivering its promises, and difficult economic situation threatened the cohesion of Poles' selves. Immigration was viewed as a process further increasing psychological distress of some Poles.;In order to investigate these relationships, the case study of Mr. P was used as an example. The theory of self-psychology provided a framework for the analysis of his background and psychological tests. The obtained information revealed that his deficient archaic selfobject experiences and inability to fulfill his needs in the chaotic social environment of his Polish homeland endangered wholeness of his self and predisposed him to psychopathology. The process of immigration and failure to obtain more effective selfobject experiences in the new country led to his fragmentation.;Special attention was placed on data analysis with respect to specific cultural patterns characteristic to this population. Several major themes observed in Mr. P's testing material were outlined including family patterns, perception of authority figures and environment, negative self-perception, approach to feelings, and religion. These findings were then discussed in relation to the Polish-Americans' treatment needs, and a few specific recommendations for clinicians working with this population were offered. It was suggested that psychologists working with this minority group should familiarize themselves with their cultural background and numerous changes that took place in their country. Moreover, they should be aware of Poles' perception of illness, both physical and psychological, and their tendency to pressure clinicians for quick and effective solutions. Facilitating trust, safety, and stability in the therapeutic relationships was especially stressed, along with emphasis on increasing Poles' active participation and sense of control in therapy. Such an approach and understanding of this minority group's cultural background and long lasting turmoil are likely to decrease misdiagnosis and enhance effectiveness of psychological services both in assessment and therapy.