‘Migration and grief go hand in hand‘ – a qualitative analysis of losses and grief among first- and second-generation individuals with Turkish migration history in Germany through the lens of the minority stress model

Background
Individuals with migration history from Türkiye form one of the largest migrant communities in Germany, comprising around 1.5 million first generation migrants and 1.4 million second generation individuals born in Germany. Research indicates that both migration-related and contextual factors (e.g. discrimination and stigma) are linked to elevated psychological distress in this group. While these experiences can be understood within the framework of minority stress, little is known about how migration-related losses and grief intersect with such stress processes in this population.

Method
This qualitative study employed two semi-structured focus group discussions (N = 18), conducted separately for first- and second-generation individuals with a migration history from Türkiye. With participants’ consent, focus group interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis in MAXQDA. The minority stress model was extended to include migration-specific stressors.

Results
Migration-related loss and grief are central experiences among individuals of Turkish origin in Germany, deeply shaping their sense of belonging and identity, with discrimination and structural inequalities further exacerbating their impact on mental health. The results extend the minority stress model by integrating migration-specific stressors, particularly loss and grief, illustrating their interaction with minority stress processes. Moreover, grief transforms across generations, as the second generation internalises parental grief while also facing new stressors, particularly discrimination, emphasising the need for an intergenerational perspective.

Conclusion
This study highlights the complex interplay of migration-related stress, grief, and identity among individuals with Turkish migration history in Germany. By extending the minority stress model, it underscores the impact of interpersonal racism and societal rejection while emphasising intergenerational differences. The findings provide a foundation for future research and interventions, underscoring both individual and communal resilience within the Turkish community and informing tailored mental health support for diverse migrant populations.