The migration process through the eyes of migrants: Experiences, interpretations and responses of German migrants to New Zealand

First world countries are increasingly competing with one another to attract
educated and skilled migrants1 they require to sustain their economic
growth, and to counteract the adverse effects of their ageing populations and
growing emigration. Despite considerable investment in this endeavour,
many immigrants leave again, depriving the host country of valuable employees and businesses essential for economic growth. Consequently, these
countries must not only develop strategies to attract and selecting new immigrants, but also to retain them in ways that contribute to the development
of social and economic capital. Migration is a major life transition2 that exposes migrants to different cultural values, beliefs, and practices, and possibly hostility and discrimination.3 Since adaptation difficulties may result in psychological distress adversely affecting the mental well-being, good adaptation is crucial.4 Consequently, research which illuminates the factors that influence the well-being and adaptation of immigrants, and their decision whether to stay or to return, is crucial. This paper contributes to this debate by presenting findings
from research undertaken within the salutogenic and interpretative paradigm.