The impact of Jewish identity on the psychological adjustment of Soviet Jewish immigrants to Israel

The following study investigated the role which Jewish identity plays in the psychological adjustment of recent Soviet Jewish immigrants to Israel. Five hundred Soviet Jews ages 18-53 who immigrated to Israel within anywhere from two months to approximately two years were selected from various ''ulpan'' settings (Hebrew language courses), absorption centers and community centers in several cities, and administered a detailed questionnaire. Subjects with weakest levels of Jewish identity were significantly most distressed and least satisfied with Israel. These findings confirm the importance of the role which Jewish identity plays in the adjustment of Soviet Jewish immigrants to Israel. Clinical and empirical implications are discussed in light of the findings.