Identity Fragmentation Among High-skilled Immigrants in Norway: A Mixed-methods Investigation of Socio-demographic Predictors and Psychological Experiences

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology and Special Education

Date of Award

9-1-2026

Abstract

The growing movement of high-skilled immigrants into Norway, despite the country’s supportive integration policies and egalitarian culture, has revealed complex psychological and social challenges. While immigrants contribute significantly to economic development (Czaika & Parsons, 2017), they often encounter systemic barriers, such as credential nonrecognition and underemployment (Erdal & Midtbøen, 2017; Al Ariss & Syed, 2011). These structural challenges magnify the risk of identity fragmentation, defined as internal conflict and reduced coherence across the cultural, professional, and personal domains of the self, which can lead to diminished self-concept clarity, psychological strain, and poorer adaptation outcomes (Hammack, 2008; Brook et al., 2008). This thesis examines how socio-demographic factors, including country of origin, gender, educational attainment, length of residence, age, and religion, predict identity fragmentation among high-skilled immigrants in Norway. It used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design in which quantitative analysis informed subsequent qualitative sampling and questions, and the two strands were integrated during interpretation. The quantitative phase analyzed European Social Survey data from Rounds 1 to 11 (2002 to 2024) using regression analysis, while the qualitative phase explored lived experiences of identity conflict and social withdrawal through thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. Quantitative findings indicated that longer residence was associated with lower fragmentation. Religious affiliation did not significantly predict the overall fragmentation index, but it was associated with the immigrant-attitudes component. Qualitative findings further showed that professional congruence was associated with lower fragmentation, whereas perceived nonrecognition was associated with higher fragmentation, underscoring the role of workplace experiences in shaping identity coherence. The results have implications for culturally sensitive workplace practices, inclusive integration policies, and targeted well-being interventions that support belonging among high-skilled immigrants in Norway.

Advisor

Tracy Henley

Subject Categories

Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences

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