Examining the acculturation of self, cognition, and motivation in a new light
Why?
Migration and ethnic diversity are an integral part of today’s society. Yet, disparities in well-being and academic achievement between ethnically minoritized and majority groups persist in schools. This research offers new insights by looking beyond surface-level cultural adjustments and focusing on deeper, implicit psychological changes and their dynamic interactions, challenging traditional perspectives on acculturation. Our goal is to uncover hidden challenges and opportunities so that cultural differences are no longer seen as obstacles but as a valuable source of strength, mutual understanding, and growth. Together with schools, we strive to create a learning environment where every student truly matters.
What?
PsychAcc is a pioneering research project that rethinks psychological acculturation. This transformative process— where individuals undergo profound psychological changes through prolonged contact with another culture—is often reduced to surface-level adjustments, such as learning a new language or the willingness to integrate. Our approach goes beyond these external changes, focusing on how cultural diversity shapes core psychological processes, including self-perception, motivation, and cognition. By studying secondary school students in Flanders, PsychAcc explores how cultural interactions impact the school experience, well-being, and academic performance of both ethnically minoritized students and the majority group.
This post is also available in: NL
