Polish families in Spain navigate cultural identity across generations, study finds

Polish families living in Spain are navigating complex cultural identities across generations, according to a recent study. Researchers from SWPS University and the University of Almería found that intergenerational tensions arise as parents seek to preserve their Polish heritage while younger family members adapt to Spanish norms. The study highlights how these dynamics affect family cohesion and individual development. The research focused on 19 Polish families in Spain, involving 44 participants—23 young people aged 10 to 20 and 21 parents aged 30 to 55, mostly mothers. Through semi-structured interviews and visual tools, the team explored how these families manage cultural adaptation. The findings suggest that intergenerational conflicts frequently emerge over leisure time and autonomy, areas where Spanish youth typically have greater freedom compared to their Polish counterparts. Parents often emphasize maintaining traditional values and language, while their children increasingly adopt local customs and social behaviors. This divergence creates friction, especially among second-generation immigrants who grew up in Spain. Teenagers frequently resist parental expectations, seeking independence similar to their Spanish peers. One participant, Amelia, a 14-year-old, expressed frustration over curfews imposed by her parents, saying she felt excluded from social activities like watching sunsets with friends. The concept of an "acculturation gap" plays a central role in these dynamics. This term describes the difference in how parents and children approach integration into a new culture. Parents tend to prioritize preserving their cultural roots, whereas children may prefer assimilating into the host society. Such discrepancies can lead to heightened conflict and stress within families. Paulina Szydłowska-Klakla, a child psychologist and lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of balancing cultural preservation with personal growth. She noted that forcing adherence to Polish traditions could hinder the development of autonomy and identity among adolescents. Instead, fostering a blend of both cultures appears to be the most effective approach for family harmony. Mothers in the study shared varied experiences regarding their migration to Spain. Those who relocated during adolescence adapted quickly to the new environment, while others faced challenges integrating later in life. Their perspectives influenced how they raised their children, with many striving to provide stability amid changing circumstances. The study underscores the broader implications of immigration on family structures and individual well-being. As Polish families continue to settle in Spain, understanding these intergenerational dynamics becomes essential for supporting both cultural continuity and personal development. Researchers hope their findings will inform policies and practices aimed at enhancing the quality of life for immigrant families.