Major life events and acculturation trajectories of refugees: The example of divorced Syrian refugees in Germany

This study examines how divorce, as a major life event, influences the acculturation trajectories of Syrian refugee men and women in Germany. Using qualitative interviews with 34 participants, it explores the impact of divorce on three key dimensions of acculturation: social identification, religious identity, and attitudes toward host country family laws. Thematic analysis reveals notable gendered variations in acculturation strategies: men predominantly adopt separation or marginalization strategies, perceiving German family law as undermining their authority, while women pursue integration or assimilation, viewing legal frameworks as avenues for empowerment. This study extends John Berry’s acculturation model by introducing major life events as a critical, yet previously underexplored, dimension in shaping acculturation strategies. It emphasizes that personal transitions, such as divorce, can significantly influence acculturation processes, either accelerating or hindering adaptation. By linking divorce with broader acculturation dynamics, the study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how personal and sociocultural factors interact in the migration experience. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including legal literacy programs and culturally sensitive counselling, to support refugees navigating post-divorce transitions within the host society. This research calls for further exploration of how life events interact with cultural contexts to influence the acculturation of refugee populations.