Psychological Acculturation and Adaptation among Russian-Speaking Immigrant Adolescents in Finland explores the complexity and dynamic nature of the acculturation process. The phenomenon of acculturation is considered with special reference to changes over time, ethnic identity, the actual degree of acculturation, and predictors of successful adaptation during the process. Particular emphasis is placed on immigrant with a returnee background.

Inga Jasinskaja-Lahti’s studies present several interesting results. For example, cultural contact orientation and language- and family-related factors prove to be important for the ethnic identity of adolescents, who continuously have to reassess the importance of the experiences of parental support and of adherence to traditional family values, both of which promoted the psychological adaptation of the adolescents studied.

These findings are valuable for the further development of acculturation research, as well as for educational and social workers and others influencing immigrant integration. This book provides important insight for anyone interested in issues on immigration and adaptation.