What term describes the process of minority immigrant groups adopting dominant culture practices?

The process of minority immigrant groups adopting dominant culture practices is best described by the term assimilation. Assimilation refers to the blending of minority groups into the dominant culture, where the minority group adopts the values, behaviors, and beliefs of the dominant society, often to the extent that their original cultural identity becomes less distinct.

In this context, assimilation is characterized by a significant shift in cultural identity, where individuals from immigrant backgrounds adopt the language, social norms, and practices of the majority culture, often as a means to navigate and succeed in a new societal landscape. This process can lead to a more uniform cultural pattern within a society, as the immigrant group becomes more integrated into the mainstream culture.

Understanding assimilation is important in discussions around cultural identity, social interactions, and the dynamics of multicultural societies. It contrasts with other terms such as integration, which implies coexistence without losing one’s original cultural identity, and acculturation, which refers more to the exchange of cultural features while maintaining distinct cultural identities. Segregation is the separation of groups, which does not align with the concept of adopting the dominant culture.