Vella, Rose Marie (2008) Counselling minority migrant groups : supporting Maltese-Australian females and their descendants affected by acculturation stress. Coursework Master thesis, Victoria University.

Abstract

This thesis examines the counseiUng needs of ethnic migrant groups, in particular the counselling needs of Maltese-Australian females and their female descendants. Research indicates that some Maltese migrants in Australia have experienced acculturation difficulties. Maltese- Australian women record a high prevalence of depression. Reports indicate that children of Maltese- Australian migrants experience lower self- esteem and more parent-child conflict than their Anglo- Australian peers. Research indicates that some members of the Maltese- Australian community, in particular Maltese -Australian females experience more mental illness than other groups and that this may be attached to experiences of unresolved acculturation stress. Children of Maltese- Australian females are at risk of being affected by trans-generational acculturation stress Theraputic interventions for Maltese-Australian females need to target specific cultural needs, identity confusion and experiences of unresolved acculturation stress. An integrated trans- theoretical model of counselling was recommended and included a culturally focused Narrative, Existential and Family therapeutic model for Maltese- Australian females and their female descendants.

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