The concept of differential acculturation is a fruitful approach to understanding age-related adjustment difficulties and intergenerational conflict among Vietnamese refugees in America. Although the Vietnamese and American societies both attempt to produce well-functioning, self-sufficient individuals, the developmental process differs in the two cultures. Adolescent Vietnamese refugees come to this country at a critical period in their development and are much more vulnerable than their adult counterparts to American social pressures. Adults, on the other hand, must cope with role loss and make immediate adjustments to secure employment.
