From Migration to Integration: Enhancing Expatriate Support for Expatriate Families in Finland
Wang, Hanchen (2023)
2023
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2023121537688
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2023121537688
Tiivistelmä
This thesis delves into the experiences of expatriates in Finland, focusing on the challenges they face, the support systems available, and their integration into Finnish society. Through qualitative research, comprising semi-structured interviews with expatriates from various backgrounds, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in relocating to Finland for professional reasons.
The research adopts an interpretivist paradigm, exploring the subjective experiences of expatriates and analysing their narratives to uncover the intricacies of cultural adjustment, social support, and coping mechanisms. The study highlights the pivotal role of language barriers, cultural differences, and the Finnish social environment in shaping the expatriate experience.
Key findings reveal that while initial challenges predominantly revolve around linguistic hurdles and cultural assimilation, over time, expatriates’ focus shifts to deeper social integration and professional development. The study underscores the significance of comprehensive and adaptive support systems, provided by employers and Finnish institutions, in aiding expatriates’ adjustment and integration.
This thesis contributes to the field by identifying gaps in existing literature, particularly in the context of Finnish society. It suggests that while Finland offers a unique set of challenges to expatriates, it also presents opportunities for innovative support mechanisms. The study advocates for more inclusive and tailored approaches to expatriate support, emphasizing the need for empathy and cultural sensitivity in these programs.
The implications of this research are manifold, extending to policymakers, employers, and sup- port organizations involved in expatriate relocation. The thesis concludes with recommendations for future research, highlighting the need for longitudinal studies and a broader exploration of the experiences of expatriate families in Finland.
In summary, this research offers valuable insights into the expatriate journey in Finland, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that facilitate successful cultural adaptation and integration. It underscores the importance of creating supportive environments that cater to the diverse needs of the international community, thereby enriching the multicultural landscape of Finnish society.
The research adopts an interpretivist paradigm, exploring the subjective experiences of expatriates and analysing their narratives to uncover the intricacies of cultural adjustment, social support, and coping mechanisms. The study highlights the pivotal role of language barriers, cultural differences, and the Finnish social environment in shaping the expatriate experience.
Key findings reveal that while initial challenges predominantly revolve around linguistic hurdles and cultural assimilation, over time, expatriates’ focus shifts to deeper social integration and professional development. The study underscores the significance of comprehensive and adaptive support systems, provided by employers and Finnish institutions, in aiding expatriates’ adjustment and integration.
This thesis contributes to the field by identifying gaps in existing literature, particularly in the context of Finnish society. It suggests that while Finland offers a unique set of challenges to expatriates, it also presents opportunities for innovative support mechanisms. The study advocates for more inclusive and tailored approaches to expatriate support, emphasizing the need for empathy and cultural sensitivity in these programs.
The implications of this research are manifold, extending to policymakers, employers, and sup- port organizations involved in expatriate relocation. The thesis concludes with recommendations for future research, highlighting the need for longitudinal studies and a broader exploration of the experiences of expatriate families in Finland.
In summary, this research offers valuable insights into the expatriate journey in Finland, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that facilitate successful cultural adaptation and integration. It underscores the importance of creating supportive environments that cater to the diverse needs of the international community, thereby enriching the multicultural landscape of Finnish society.