A transitional study of migration, alcohol use and concept of alcohol drinking behaviours amongst Chinese migrants in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the Master of Philosophy, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
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Date
2015
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Massey University
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Abstract
Migration is a complex and stressful life changing event. Resettlement process can cause
tremendous stress for Chinese migrants, due to the huge differences between China and
New Zealand. Alcohol use behaviours among migrants are complex and likely influenced
by many factors, including social norms, mental health and acculturation. The drinking
culture among Chinese migrants may alter due to acculturation.
This research was conducted as a preliminary study to explore the factors that shape the
alcohol consumption patterns, beliefs and the factors that could influence alcohol
consumption related aspects from migration, acculturation and social adjustment amongst
12 Chinese migrants in New Zealand. A qualitative research design using one on one
interviews and focus groups was utilised in this research. Thematic analysis was used to
analyse the data.
The study revealed Chinese migrants’ cultural norms, beliefs and attitudes towards the use
of alcohol and the way they have been acculturated to a more westernised drinking culture
with widened choices of multicultural alcoholic beverages in New Zealand. However
Chinese migrants still maintained some traditional Chinese drinking customs and also
integrated oriental and western drinking culture together in their drinking occasions in
New Zealand. Adapting to the New Zealand drinking culture in a problematic way, or
using alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with negative emotions or loss due to
migration can lead to harmful drinking behaviours, e.g., drinking and driving, excessive
alcohol consumption. The initial migration period, homestay and family living in New
Zealand were identified as the protective factors to prevent excessive alcohol consumption
and risky drinking behaviours among Chinese migrants in New Zealand. The research
indicated further studies of drinking culture among Asian migrants are needed in New
Zealand.
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Keywords
Chinese, Immigrants, Migrants, Alcohol use, Drinking, New Zealand, Research Subject Categories::SOCIAL SCIENCES::Social sciences::Psychology