Trends and directions in acculturation research

With rapid globalisation, cultural exchanges have increased and geographical boundaries have become porous. In this time of global connectivity, acculturation has been researched to understand cultural assimilation and identity formation. The outcome of cultural exposure on individual identity, group identity and the effect on cultural practices has been widely debated. The primary aim of the article is to review the conceptualizations on acculturation and the factors influencing it. It reviews critical perspectives on Berry's model (1997) of immigration, acculturation and adaptation and presents alternative ideas on identity formation as people move between cultures. The article also provides few future directions for theory building.