How discrimination and stress affects self-esteem among Dominican immigrant women: an exploratory study

Perceived discrimination as a barrier for the adequate treatment of chronic diseases in Venezuelan migrants from Peru

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between perceived discrimination and receiving adequate treatment for chronic diseases in Venezuelan migrants.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was performed. This is a secondary analysis of the ENPOVE national survey from Peru. The association between the perceived discrimination and receiving adequate treatment for chronic diseases was evaluated using a Poisson regression model, considering the adjusted effect of the multistage sampling.

RESULTS

A total of 865 migrants were evaluated (age: 36.6 ± 0.7 years and 58.2% women). Of these, 54.8% perceived discrimination, and 89.2% did not receive adequate treatment for chronic diseases. Perceived discrimination was significantly associated with a lower prevalence of receiving adequate treatment for chronic diseases (PRa = 0.49; 95%CI 0.25 - 0.97).

CONCLUSION

This study evidenced that perceived discrimination decreases the prevalence of receiving adequate treatment for chronic diseases by approximately 50% compared with those who did not perceive discrimination.

Discrimination, Self-Esteem, and Mental Health Across Ethnic Groups of Second-Generation Immigrant Adolescents

The relation between discrimination and higher depression by way of reductions in self-esteem has been documented among some racial and ethnic minority populations. Yet, the extent to which the results extend to general forms of discrimination as well as multiple second-generation immigrant ethnic groups remains underexamined. This article assessed the mediating role of self-esteem in the relation between general forms of perceived discrimination and depression symptoms among second-generation immigrant adolescents and assessed the extent to which the relations were invariant across ethnic sub-groups. Analyses were based on data from the Children of Immigrants Longitudinal Study over two periods spanning adolescence (N = 4288; M_age = 14 and 17). The mediating role of self-esteem was tested via path analysis for the full sample, and multiple-group path analyses compared these results across White, Black, Asian, Hispanic, and other (multiracial) immigrants. Indirect effects were obtained via 5000 bootstrapped replications. In the full sample, the relation between discrimination and depression was mediated by self-esteem with approximately 30% of the total effect mediated. Said mediated relation was only confirmed among White and Asian sub-groups, with 27% and 49% of the total effects mediated, respectively. The results suggest that the process by which discrimination relates to mental health may vary between immigrant racial/ethnic sub-groups. In addition, the results highlight the value of considering broader categorizations of perceived discrimination beyond race or ethnicity to understand complexities associated with intersecting marginalized identities among this population.

The moderating effect of gender as a protective factor against discrimination in migrants from Latin America and China

This study analysed the association between discrimination and satisfaction with life (SWL) in migrant groups by investigating whether different types of social support (SS; emotional, instrumental, and informational) and networks (family, immigrant and native friends, neighbours, and the community) buffer the negative effects of discrimination on SWL among migrant men and women from different backgrounds. Participants were 631 migrants from Latin America and China residing in Malaga (Spain). We identified behaviour patterns that suggest that SS has different effects on men and women from the same place of origin and similar effects on women and men from different places of origin. In conclusion, the main differences in the effects of SS as a buffer mechanism are not determined by cultural factors. It is more likely that they are determined by differential gender-role socialization, which would lead women to positively value social support.

Effects of gendered racial microaggressions on the mental health of black women

This study aims to evaluate the effects of gendered racial microaggressions on the mental health of black women, specifically the influence of the variables identity and self-esteem on the relationship between the frequency of gendered racial microaggressions and mental health. 76 women participated in the study. The mean age was 24.62 years (SD = 6.3). Participants answered four instruments in addition to sociodemographic questions: Gendered Racial Microaggression Scale, Goldberg General Health Questionnaire, Group Identification Scale, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. The results indicate that the high frequency of gendered racial microaggressions predicts worse levels of mental health and self-esteem. Self-esteem mediates the relationship between microaggressions and general health. It is a protective factor of mental health. Identity moderates this relationship, so that a high identification as a black woman is related to lower levels of mental health when faced with a high frequency of discriminatory events. Despite some limitations, the objectives were achieved. Future studies should contribute with explanations of the relationship between gendered racial microaggressions and mental health.

Impact of colorism and self-rated skin tone in predicting self-esteem among women from Pakistan

Discrimination is a very complicated, multifaceted, and long lasting problem that prevails in social and even political structure. In subcontinent, the discrimination on the basis of skin color (colorism) is making lives of women miserable who are already victims of various disparities. Colorism was found to be a predictor for both mental and physical health. This study intended to examine the impact of colorism on self-esteem of Pakistani women along with finding out other determinants of self-esteem. A cross-sectional study with 400 Pakistani females (18-40 years) from rural area was conducted. The study comprised of demographics, skin-related questions, everyday discrimination scale, and Rosenberg's self-esteem scale. Hierarchical linear regression showed residence, education, and colorism as significant predictors (p-value < 0.05) of self-esteem. Self-rated skin tone moderated effect of colorism on self-esteem (R² change = 0.028). It emphasized education of females with special focus on suburban areas along with participation of public health and dermatologists to discourage colorism and to stay confident with their skin tone.

Psychometric Properties of Newly Translated Creole Perceived Stress Scale and Daily Hassles Scale

BACKGROUND

Mothers with postpartum stress have increased maternal/infant morbidity and mortality. Haitians, a growing minority excluded from most studies because of the lack of instruments in Creole. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Daily Hassles Scale (DHS) measuring stress are not available in Creole.

PURPOSE

To test the psychometrics of the newly translated Creole instruments.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 85 Haitian mothers completed 2 instruments in Creole and English, 2 weeks apart using the process of cross-cultural adaptation.

RESULT

Internal consistency reliability and stability were strong for both instruments (.80-.94). Reliability and validity support the translated Creole with this sample of Creole speaking mothers.

CONCLUSION

Psychometric findings suggest the newly translated versions are good representations of the English versions and are ready for use.

A Cross-Sectional Study on Selected Correlates of High risk Sexual Behavior in Polish Migrants Resident in the United Kingdom

Objective: To assess the correlates of the high risk sexual behaviors of Polish migrants in the United Kingdom (UK) after 2004, and to compare such behaviors before/after immigration. Methods: In 2013, a cross-sectional study was conducted through the use of a Computer-assisted web interviewing surveying technique with the use of a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Among 408 respondents (56.9% women), with a median age of 32 years, significantly more admitted to having unprotected sexual contact with a casual partner while in the UK (p < 0.0001) than while in Poland; more were engaged in sex after the use of recreational drugs and alcohol (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001 respectively). Being a male was associated with greater odds of unprotected sex, sex after the use of alcohol, and having multiple partners. Being single and having only been a resident for a short time in the UK, presenting a lower self-esteem, were predictors of unprotected sex. A total of 19.6% of the respondents admitted to having been tested while in Poland, a lower (p < 0.0001) frequency than while in the UK (49.5%); this referred to both genders; 1.2% (95% CI: 0.79–2.83%) reported that they were HIV positive. Conclusions: Migration can create a vulnerability to STIs, especially for single male migrants with low self-esteem, staying in the UK for less than two years. The results point to strengthening strategies which help reduce high risk sexual behavior among Polish migrants, and to introduce interventions to promote an awareness of HIV sero-status.

Psychometric Properties of Newly Translated Spanish Life Events Inventory and Daily Hassles Scale

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Measuring stress in Hispanic Americans, the fastest growing U.S. minority, is problematic. The Life Events Inventory (LEI) and the Daily Hassles Scale (DHS), widely used stress instruments, are not available in Spanish.

PURPOSE

To test the psychometric properties of the translated Spanish versions of the LEI and DHS.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 63 Hispanic women completed both instruments in Spanish and English 2 weeks apart.

RESULTS

Internal consistency reliability and stability were strong for both instruments (.85-.97). Reliability and validity evidence for the translated Spanish versions were strong and similar to the English version.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychometric findings suggest that the newly translated Spanish versions are good representations of the English versions and that these newly translated instruments are ready for use.

Reducing health inequities affecting immigrant women: a qualitative study of their available assets

BACKGROUND

Immigrant women often experience health inequities, whether for reasons of gender, country of origin, or socioeconomic status. The view of immigrant women has always focussed on their needs, without taking into account their available assets. A salutogenic approach incorporating an assets analysis could provide a new perspective on the design of health promotion interventions to reduce health inequities. The study objective was to identify the assets of this group of women as a necessary first step in changing the paradigm used in such health promotion interventions.

METHODS

This qualitative study combined focus groups, in-depth interviews, and a photovoice session. The aim was to describe the assets of this group, based on Antonovsky's salutogenic approach and assets model. Qualitative results were interpreted with a phenomenological focus, identifying each individual's internal, community, and institutional assets.

RESULTS

The self awareness of skills was linked to a person's description of herself as being optimistic, having religious beliefs, and having motivations and objectives in life, for herself, her family or her children. Being motivated helped the women to persist in doing or learning things that could be useful in confronting difficult situations. Another selfawareness skill was feeling useful to others, whether this was due to religious beliefs about their role in life or to the importance of the mutual support of interpersonal relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

High optimism, strong capacity for struggle and self-initiative, the importance of religious beliefs, social support, and concern for their children's future were described as assets of immigrant women. Identification of these assets allows us to develop more in-depth knowledge and better tools for health promotion programs and policies intended to reduce health inequities in this population of immigrant women.

Perceived discrimination, family functioning, and depressive symptoms among immigrant women in Taiwan

This study examined the moderating effect of family functioning on the relationship between perceived discrimination and depressive symptoms in immigrant women. A total of 239 immigrant women were selected from four administrative regions in Central Taiwan. Questionnaires concerning perceived discrimination, family functioning (including family cohesion and family adaptability), depressive symptoms, and demographic characteristics were completed by either women themselves (N = 120) or their husbands (N = 119). The moderating effect of family functioning on the relationship between perceived discrimination and depression symptoms was analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Findings showed that a higher level of perceived discrimination among immigrant women is associated with more severe depressive symptoms. Family functioning serves as a moderator between the relationship of perceived discrimination and depressive symptoms, but the moderating effect of family adaptability was evident only in data reported by immigrant women. The results indicate that perceived discrimination has negative mental health implications, and also point to the importance of family functioning for depression. Findings suggest that providers should consider addressing immigrant women's mental health needs through declining their psychosocial distress at multiple ecological levels.

The relationship between perceived discrimination and psychotherapeutic and illicit drug misuse in Chicago, IL, USA

Based on several stress-coping frameworks, recent studies have suggested that perceived experiences of discrimination, a psychosocial stressor, may be associated with various risky health behaviors. The 2001 Chicago Community Adult Health Study (n = 3,101), a face-to-face representative probability sample of adults in Chicago, IL, USA, was used to examine the relationship among lifetime everyday discrimination, major discrimination, and the use of illicit and psychotherapeutic drugs for nonmedical reasons. We used negative binomial logistic and multinomial regression analyses controlling for potential confounders. Approximately 17 % of the respondents reported using one or more illicit drugs and/or misusing one or more psychotherapeutic drug. Adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, other stressors and various personality-related characteristics, results from negative binomial regression suggest that respondents who experienced moderate to high levels of everyday discrimination misused on average 1.5 different kinds of drugs more than respondents that experienced relatively low levels of everyday discrimination (p < 0.05). Similarly, an increase in one lifetime major discrimination event was associated with an increase of misusing 1.3 different drugs on average regardless of experiences of everyday discrimination (p < 0.001). When examining the types of drugs misused, results from multinomial logistic regression suggest that everyday discrimination was only associated with illicit drug use alone; however, lifetime major discrimination was associated with increased odds of using any illicit and both illicit/psychotherapeutic drugs. Mental health and substance use clinical providers should be aware of these potential relationships and consider addressing the harmful effects of perceived discrimination, in all patients not only among racial/ethnic minority patients.

Interpersonal discrimination and depressive symptomatology: examination of several personality-related characteristics as potential confounders in a racial/ethnic heterogeneous adult sample

BACKGROUND

Research suggests that reports of interpersonal discrimination result in poor mental health. Because personality characteristics may either confound or mediate the link between these reports and mental health, there is a need to disentangle its role in order to better understand the nature of discrimination-mental health association. We examined whether hostility, anger repression and expression, pessimism, optimism, and self-esteem served as confounders in the association between perceived interpersonal discrimination and CESD-based depressive symptoms in a race/ethnic heterogeneous probability-based sample of community-dwelling adults.

METHODS

We employed a series of ordinary least squares regression analyses to examine the potential confounding effect of hostility, anger repression and expression, pessimism, optimism, and self-esteem between interpersonal discrimination and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Hostility, anger repression, pessimism and self-esteem were significant as possible confounders of the relationship between interpersonal discrimination and depressive symptoms, together accounting for approximately 38% of the total association (beta: 0.1892, p < 0.001). However, interpersonal discrimination remained a positive predictor of depressive symptoms (beta: 0.1176, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

As one of the first empirical attempts to examine the potential confounding role of personality characteristics in the association between reports of interpersonal discrimination and mental health, our results suggest that personality-related characteristics may serve as potential confounders. Nevertheless, our results also suggest that, net of these characteristics, reports of interpersonal discrimination are associated with poor mental health.

More than culture: structural racism, intersectionality theory, and immigrant health

Explanations for immigrant health outcomes often invoke culture through the use of the concept of acculturation. The over reliance on cultural explanations for immigrant health outcomes has been the topic of growing debate, with the critics' main concern being that such explanations obscure the impact of structural factors on immigrant health disparities. In this paper, we highlight the shortcomings of cultural explanations as currently employed in the health literature, and argue for a shift from individual culture-based frameworks, to perspectives that address how multiple dimensions of inequality intersect to impact health outcomes. Based on our review of the literature, we suggest specific lines of inquiry regarding immigrants' experiences with day-to-day discrimination, as well as on the roles that place and immigration policies play in shaping immigrant health outcomes. The paper concludes with suggestions for integrating intersectionality theory in future research on immigrant health.