Journal of Immigrant and Refugee Services
Volume 1, Issue 3-4, 2003, Pages 61-80

Stress, social support, and coping as predictors of depression level: Difference between native-born and immigrant Mexican Americans (Article)

Kung W.W.* , Castaneda I. , Lee P.-J.
  • a School of Social Work, University of Southern Calilornia, Los Angeles, CA, United States
  • b Prof Devmt/Cultur Competence Train, Los Angeles Co. Dept. Mental Hlth., Los Angeles, CA, United States
  • c School of Social Work, University of Southern Calilornia, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

In a community sample of 159 Mexican Americans from low socioeconomic stratum, the immigrants (N = 84) showed a slightly lower depression level, though statistically nonsignificant, when compared with the native born (N = 75). The immigrants showed signs of resilience as they were significantly more likely to be employed, had higher income, and experienced less stress but comparable social support. For both groups, higher stress and passive coping significantly predicted higher depression level. Total social support, active coping, and younger age also significantly ameliorated depression for the native born. Among the various types of stress and social support, only family-related sources were significant in predicting depression, indicating the impact of familism on Mexican Americans. © 2003 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.

Author Keywords

Mexican Americans Stress Native-born Mexicans Depression Coping Social supports

Index Keywords

comparative study United States mental health North America coping strategy immigrant population
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-6344223349&doi=10.1300%2fJ191v01n03_04&partnerID=40&md5=984582c05340b05a168e5f20a3749b21
DOI: 10.1300/J191v01n03_04
ISSN: 15362949
Cited by: 2
Original Language: English