9781422270233

Food as an Obstacle The type of food found in the United States is another obstacle to consider. Dietary restrictions because of cultural or religious beliefs may make finding food options in the US challenging. For example, certain cultures avoid beef or are vegetarian by nature. Adapting food traditions to an American lifestyle isn’t easy and is just one more obstacle immigrants face. Also, many immigrants feel judged for their food choices because these foods are different from the standard American diet. Ethnic foods can also be the basis for dealing with social obstacles like bullying when children and teens are involved. They smell, look, and taste differently, which is just another way teen immigrants stand out among their peers, sometimes resulting in a negative experience. Social Expectations Then there are also significant social challenges for immigrants of all ages. Social expectations may differ significantly, leading to misunderstandings or even conflict. For example, religious beliefs are often a big part of cultural identity. Belief differences can cause or lead immigrants to experience religious discrimination, xenophobia, and bigotry. These issues can then negatively impact teens’ mental health. Most schools and large employers should have procedures to offer guidance on handling these differences, but sometimes, immigrants don’t know these exist. Part of breaking down barriers is ensuring they know whom to contact in case of difficulty. The Challenges of Cultural Differences Navigating cultural differences can be challenging for new immigrants. They don’t typically have a high level of support or understanding from their new communities. For example, you might be used to being very respectful of your elders in your

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You Are Not Alone: Immigration