^aDepartment of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Jefferson Medical College, 833 Chestnut East, Suite 210-C, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

Correspondence: Salman Akhtar, E-mail: salman.akhtar@jefferson.edu

Abstract

In this article I discuss the characteristics that distinguish immigrants' homoethnic friendships from their heteroethnic friendships. I note how the two patterns of socialization serve different psychological functions, at both conscious and unconscious levels. I address the emotionally supportive role of local homoethnic enclaves and the symbolic significance of ethnic food in the context of immigration. I also note, albeit briefly, the ways in which gender differences affect the postmigration socialization processes. Throughout this discourse my main concern would be on the powerful role friendships play in the immigrant's subjectivity.