Sociological Theories of Immigration: Pathways to Integration for U.S. Immigrants

Abstract

This literature review examines major theoretical frameworks utilized by sociologists in examining the processes by which immigrants are incorporated into a host society. Beginning with classical assimilation theory in the 1920s, theorists defined the incorporation process as a linear path for all immigrants, regardless of group characteristics or social context. The responsibility for change was placed solely on the immigrant group. By the 1960s, theorists had redefined assimilation to acknowledge different paths of integration influenced by interactions of immigrant group characteristics with the host society context. Modern theories branching from classic assimilation theory include segmented assimilation and spatial assimilation and theories focusing on ethnic group influences. The review concludes with implications for better understanding influences of interactions between human behavior and the social environment as they relate to immigrant populations.

KEYWORDS:

• Assimilation
• ethnic minority
• immigration
• social integration