Adjusting to the New World: A Study of Bhutanese Refugees’ Adaptation in the US

Abstract

Refugee resettlement is a complex process that involves adjustment from both the host community and the newly arrived refugees. Failure to adjust to the new society would develop symptoms of anxiety, depression and psychological distress. This paper discusses the challenges and opportunities experienced by the Bhutanese Nepali or Lhotsampas refugees resettled in the US from 2008 onwards. It discusses the result of a qualitative study of 35 resettled Bhutanese in three US cities: Madison, WI, and Scranton and Pittsburgh, PA. Findings suggest for improvement in the resettlement process at the local and national levels.