Summary and Conclusions

Abstract

The findings identifying the dynamics of emigration are reviewed first. Self-expressive factors are foremost in explaining motivation to emigrate. Self-instrumental elements account for adjustments. Other expressive dimensions enter into decisions about remaining or returning. This summary chapter addresses how emigration from developed nations has particular theoretical and research implications in that the event may be part of a migration cycle. The effect of lacking ties to the American community is not as hypothesized. Emigrants from the United States retain their American cultural identity partially for its prestige value and consistency with valued American traits. Emigrants to Israel and Australia retained American citizenship and were interested in US social and political affairs. Adjustment-absorption is a slow process with the possibility of return migration. Durkheimian theory on individuals and linkages to society may help in making distinctions among voluntary international migrants in the developed world. In contemporary trends in international migration in the developed world, adventurers are still to be found; but modern migrants also include those seeking religious and/or ethnic fulfillment. Nevertheless, emergence of full-fledged religioethnic groups is rare. Finally, this study yields a set of propositions that, if confirmed, lead to a set of recommended policies.