| The purpose of this thesis is to look at the experiences of voluntary immigrants through the perspective of the mythological hero as described by Joseph Campbell (1968) and Carol S. Pearson's (1989). This thesis attempts to demonstrate that by examining the meaning of the mythological stories of different cultures, we can uncover the essence of life's transformations. This research finds connections among the modern theories of migration by offering an explanation of the biculturalist model of acculturation adopted by immigrants, the adventures of the hero's journey by looking at the archetype of the mythological hero, and at the new branch of positive psychology by extending areas such as optimism, love, life satisfaction, and spirituality. Guided by the framework of Heuristic Methodology my research was based on interviews with six participants, all voluntary immigrants representing five different cultures: Russian, Iranian, Cameroonian, Chinese, and Austrian. The study also includes reflections upon my own experience of immigration. Findings include numerous themes emerging from the main stages of pre-migration, migration, and post migration. The creative synthesis offers an analogy between the immigrants' journey and their admired heroes. Implications of the study for counseling professionals, society, literature on immigration, co-researchers, and for other individuals facing similar experiences are discussed. This study also suggests ideas for future research that can considerably extend our knowledge about human development. This study demonstrates some of the heroic qualities of the immigrants as revealed in their strengths and successes in this new society. |
