Who is Adapting to a New Culture? Unmasking How Personality Traits Predict Acculturation Among Non-Western Immigrants in Sweden

Abstract: Using data from 159 participants (Mage = 27.11 years; SD = 6.47; 55% men), we investigate the relationships between personality traits, acculturation towards heritage and mainstream culture, and sociocultural adaptation among non-Western immigrants in Sweden. A series of regression analyses have shown conscientiousness and agreeableness significantly related to heritage culture identification, while emotionality was associated with mainstream culture identification. Moreover, acculturation towards mainstream culture positively predicts sociocultural adaptation. These findings suggest that personality traits influence cultural identification and processes of integration, thereby improving our understanding of immigrants’ adaptation process.