Statistical positivism, psychoanalysis, and the theory of sociocultural models: A review of three approaches to acculturation

Abstract

This review examines some of the contentious issues of acculturation psychology: Its acultural status, lack of advances in understanding the mechanisms of acculturation, and limited ability to help immigrants adapt. After introducing the problem of acculturation, the author analyzes quantitative acculturation studies rooted in statistical positivism along with migration and the intercultural psychoanalytic approach. The paper considers the philosophical bases of these studies and reflects on their strengths and weaknesses. Subsequently, the author introduces the theory of sociocultural models (TSCM) and highlights why it is a viable option for acculturation studies. The paradigm of critical realism is emphasized, and its role in understanding acculturation mechanisms is discussed. The advantages and points of improvement of the TSCM are highlighted.