engleski

Acculturation Process of Adolescents and its Effects on Diet-Related Behaviors and Psychological Functioning

Recent forced migrations in Croatia have led to potential acculturation situations between different cultural groups. Historical and cross-cultural experiences suggest that sociocultural changes may associated with increased vulnerability to psychosocial and diet-related problems, particularly in adolescents, who face a double challenge of adjustment to a new environment while integrating past traumas and defining a new identity within and between the two cultures. This study focuses on adolescents with immigrant background (aged 15-18). Permanently settled in the region of Dalmatia, Croatia, during the last ten years. The data presented refer to the potential influences of the acculturation process on their nutritional status (measured as BMI &#8211 ; body mass index), eating attitudes and behaviors, perceived body image and psychological functioning and adjustment (measured by stress level and self-esteem). The results obtained indicate that diet-related behaviors and nutritional status appear to be associated with acculturation stress, while there is a significant positive relationship between self-esteem dietary adequacy and body image in acculturating adolescents.

anthropology; acculturation; adolescents; psychological functioning; diet behavior

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