Given documented variation in pre-migration and migration-related experiences, Cuban immigrants in the U.S. who arrived during or subsequent to 1980 may be disadvantaged in mental health and psychosocial adjustment relative to earlier arrivals. Using wave 1 of the Physical Challenge and Health study, we compare earlier and later arriving immigrants in levels of depression, anxiety, and self-esteem and test whether adversity and social support, acculturation-related factors, or pre-migration conditions account for any differences observed among a sample of adults living in South Florida (N = 191). Bivariate analyses reveal that later arrivals are relatively disadvantaged in anxiety and self-esteem and marginally so in depression. While later arrivals do not report more adversity in the U.S., they have lower levels of family support to cope with any adversity experienced. Later arrivals are also less likely to interview in English or to have a strong American identity, and they were more likely to have arrived as adults. Relative disadvantages in anxiety and self-esteem are best explained by indicators of acculturation and family support. Policies and programs that address acculturation difficulties and increase family support could improve the health and adjustment of these and similar immigrants. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd.

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anxiety depression immigrant social psychology immigrant population Health Status Disparities mental health human immigration middle aged controlled study coping behavior Adaptation, Psychological Health Surveys social support Cuba self esteem United States Young Adult Florida Humans family psychology male Emigrants and Immigrants Acculturation female Multivariate Analysis cultural factor self concept Article major clinical study adult Prejudice Florida [United States] Social Adjustment population migration public health health survey