Beyond homesickness: The mediating role of migratory grief and loneliness in the relationship between stressful life events and posttraumatic stress symptoms in a Dutch bicultural sample

Abstract

With the increasing number of international migrants, understanding the psychological impact of migration is essential. This study examines the relationship between stressful life events (SLE) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in a Dutch bicultural sample, with a focus on the mediating roles of migratory grief and loneliness. Drawing from grief-related frameworks, the study explores how identity loss, cultural bereavement, and social disconnection contribute to psychological distress. A total of 66 participants completed surveys assessing SLE, migratory grief, loneliness, and PTSS. Findings indicate a strong association between SLE and PTSS, supporting a dose-response model of trauma exposure. While migratory grief and loneliness were correlated, mediation analysis did not support their roles as sequential mediators between SLE and PTSS. The results suggest that migratory grief and loneliness may be more strongly linked to depression than to trauma-related symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of culturally sensitive interventions addressing both trauma and identity-related stressors in bicultural individuals. Future research should explore alternative mediators and longitudinal effects of migratory grief on psychological well-being.