The Role of Demographic Variables and Ethnic Identity in Predicting Well-being Among Syrian Circassian Returnees to the Caucasus

Abstract

Return migration is widely recognised as a complex process involving reintegration, identity renegotiation, and adaptation to social and cultural environments that may differ from expectations. Despite growing scholarship on migration and well-being, limited empirical research has examined how ethnic identity relates to psychological well-being among Syrian Circassian returnees specifically. Existing findings across migrant populations have been mixed, with some studies reporting positive associations between ethnic identity and well-being, while others suggest weak or context-dependent relationships. This study investigated the role of ethnic identity in predicting well-being among Syrian Circassian returnees to the Caucasus, a population shaped by conflict-driven displacement and subsequent return migration to an ancestral homeland.We  examined two research questions: first, whether demographic variables (age, gender, and household income) predicted well-being among Syrian Circassian returnees; and second, whether ethnic identity contributed additional explanatory value beyond these factors. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected from 102 adult returnees residing in the Kabardino-Balkarian and Adyghe Republics. Participants completed validated measures of ethnic identity (Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure) and well-being (Mental Health Continuum–Short Form). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess predictive relationships. Findings indicated that ethnic identity was a significant and moderate positive predictor of well-being, explaining additional variance beyond demographic variables. Age emerged as a modest positive predictor, whereas gender and household income were not statistically significant. These results highlight the central role of ethnic identity as a psychological resource that supports well-being during return migration. Stronger ethnic identification was associated with higher levels of emotional, psychological, and social well-being, suggesting that identity may provide continuity, meaning, and a sense of belonging in the context of reintegration. Overall, this study contributes to the limited empirical literature on Syrian Circassian returnees and extends theoretical understanding of identity processes in return migration contexts. It underscores the importance of considering psychosocial and cultural factors, alongside demographic variables, when examining adaptation among displaced populations. The findings also offer practical implications for policies and interventions aimed at supporting returnees, emphasising the value of strengthening cultural identity and community belonging to enhance psychological adjustment and well-being.