Abstract
Depression represents a growing concern among Asian Americans. This study examined whether discrimination and family dynamics
are associated with depression in this population. Weighted logistic regressions using nationally representative data on Asian
American adults (N = 2095) were used to examine associations between discrimination, negative interactions with relatives, family support, and
12-month major depressive disorder (MDD). Discrimination (odds ratio [OR] = 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.67, 2.71)
and negative interactions with relatives (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.58) were positively associated with MDD. Family support
was associated with lower MDD (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.59, 0.89), and buffered lower levels of discrimination. Results suggest
that discrimination may have negative mental health implications, and also point to the importance of family relationships
for depression among Asian Americans. Findings suggest that providers may consider stress experienced at multiple ecological
levels to address Asian American mental health needs.
are associated with depression in this population. Weighted logistic regressions using nationally representative data on Asian
American adults (N = 2095) were used to examine associations between discrimination, negative interactions with relatives, family support, and
12-month major depressive disorder (MDD). Discrimination (odds ratio [OR] = 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.67, 2.71)
and negative interactions with relatives (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.58) were positively associated with MDD. Family support
was associated with lower MDD (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.59, 0.89), and buffered lower levels of discrimination. Results suggest
that discrimination may have negative mental health implications, and also point to the importance of family relationships
for depression among Asian Americans. Findings suggest that providers may consider stress experienced at multiple ecological
levels to address Asian American mental health needs.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-10
- DOI 10.1007/s10903-011-9548-4
- Authors
- David H. Chae, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Room 512, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Sunmin Lee, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
- Karen D. Lincoln, School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Emily S. Ihara, Department of Social Work, College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
- Journal Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health
- Online ISSN 1557-1920
- Print ISSN 1557-1912