Psycho-social adaptation of Saudi students and spouses in Canada

Abstract EN

Cultural change is a stressful process that is associated with higher risk of both mental and physical illnesses.

These associations vary among people where refugees have a higher risk than immigrants who in turn have a higher risk than sojourners.

In this study we investigated the psychosocial adaptation of Saudi students and their spouses in Canada.

There were (368) potential subjects who received a mailed out questionnaire that includes questions on demographic data and mode of adaptation and the (SCL-90-R) to measure psychological disturbances.

Response rate was 55,7%.

More male subjects were involved in formal training and were able to the speak English language compared to female subjects.

About third of the subjects had some relationship to Canadians while almost all had maintained close contact with other Saudis.

There was reduction in religious observance but not personal habits and behaviors.

Again one third fulfilled the criteria for caseness on the (SCL-90-R).

Differences between males and females were discussed along with other findings in cultural context.