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Greek Immigrants in Australia: Implications for Culturally Sensitive Practice

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Abstract

This exploratory research examined adjustment challenges, resiliencies, attitudes, emotional health, economic stability, criminal involvement, victimization and service experiences, and some cultural propensities of Greek Immigrants (GIs) in Australia using a convenient multi-generational sample (n = 123; response rate = .5). Data were collected via surveys, telephone, and personal-interviews in four major Australian cities. Among other things, the study revealed that Greek identity and cultural customs are often significant to first generation GIs. Adjustment challenges upon entry include primarily language, housing, and transportation difficulties, nostalgia for relatives and the motherland, unfamiliarity with socio-cultural systems, unemployment, money challenges, and lack of friendships. Christian faith, the extended family, family values and traditions, cultural pride for ancient Greek achievements, and a hard ‘work ethic’ are notable resiliencies that support GIs in their struggles and solidify their pursuit for happiness and success. Financial concerns, aging, and nostalgia for relatives and the motherland were the primary causes of socio-emotional instability. Attitudinal differences in the respondents based on age, gender, and socio-economic status, cross-cultural comparisons, and recommendations for culturally-sensitive practice with GIs are analyzed and methodological limitations illuminated. Future research needs in the field are also highlighted.

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Acknowledgments

This research was supported in part by a travel funds grant from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke College of Arts and Sciences. The author expresses gratitude to everyone who contributed to this research including the priests, restaurant managers, and doctor; special thanks are extended to philanthropist Mrs. Popi Zintilis who served the Greek community from many different key posts and provided instrumental support, information, and suggestions for the completion of this study. The author is also indebted to Dr. Miriam Potocky of Florida International University for unconditionally sharing her expertise with immigration issues and critically evaluating an earlier draft of this paper.

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  1. Department of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Health Sciences Bldg, Office #364, 1 University Drive, Pembroke, NC, 28372, USA

    Savvas Daniel Georgiades

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Correspondence to Savvas Daniel Georgiades.

Appendix: Research Questionnaire/Interview Used for All Data Collection

Appendix: Research Questionnaire/Interview Used for All Data Collection

Hi, my name is Dr. Savvas Georgiades. I’m a social work professor at an American University interested in the history, experiences, and opinions of Greek Australians. Completing this survey, which usually takes about 10 min, indicates that you provide consent to participate in this voluntary study. You can skip any question you feel uncomfortable answering. The study results will be summarized and may be anonymously published and/or shown online. Confidentiality for all the information you share in this survey is guaranteed; all surveys will be kept locked in my desk and destroyed once the data have been analyzed. Please do not write your name anywhere on here.

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Georgiades, S.D. Greek Immigrants in Australia: Implications for Culturally Sensitive Practice. J Immigrant Minority Health 17, 1537–1547 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-014-0128-2

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