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Sayed L, Alanazi M, Ajrouch KJ. Intergenerational Relations and Well-being Among Older Middle Eastern/Arab American Immigrants During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Res Aging 2024:1640275241256990. [PMID: 38898773 DOI: 10.1177/01640275241256990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the consequences of COVID-19 socialization restrictions on familial and social support systems of older Middle Eastern/Arab immigrants in Michigan, home to the largest, most visible concentration of Middle Eastern/Arab Americans in the United States. Six focus group (N = 45) interviews were conducted with Middle Eastern/Arab American immigrants aged 60 and older to assess difficulties faced during the pandemic as it related to familial, social, and medical care. Inductive analysis identified two major themes to advance meanings of intergenerational relations among older immigrants (a) the breakdown of family relations, which describes a shift in both the experience and expectations of intergenerational relations in Middle Eastern/Arab families; and (b) cultural sources of increased stress, illustrating how the pandemic interfered with valued family interactions to affect well-being. These findings indicated social and cultural sources of heightened stress linked to shifts in intergenerational relations among Middle Eastern/Arab American older immigrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Sayed
- James Madison College, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Mohammed Alanazi
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kristine J Ajrouch
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI, USA
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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2
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Albdour M, Templin T, Zilioli S, Hong JS, Lumley MA. Current and Cumulative Stress Experiences: A Model for Arab American Young Adults. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2024; 30:364-377. [PMID: 36217725 DOI: 10.1177/10783903221110235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of multiple stressors on immigrant young adults' endocrine functioning and health outcomes has not been comprehensively investigated. AIMS This study tested a theoretical model of cumulative and current stressor effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis functioning and health-related quality of life (HRQL) among Arab American young adults. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, we recruited 160 participants, ages 18 to 24 years, from an urban university in the Midwest. Cumulative stress was assessed by self-report measures of childhood adversity, bullying victimization, and perceived ethnic discrimination. Current perceived stress was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) while cortisol levels were measured in participants' hair. Structural equation modeling tested the effects of cumulative and current stress on cortisol and HRQL. RESULTS Cumulative stress was negatively associated with HRQL (standardized path coefficient = -.51, p < .05). Interestingly, however, cumulative stress was inversely associated with hair cortisol level (standardized path coefficient = -.51, p < .05). Current stress was positively associated with cortisol level (standardized path coefficient = .43, p < .05) and negatively associated with the mental HRQL (standardized path coefficient < -.37, p < .05). CONCLUSION Cumulative stress exhibited a different effect on HPA functioning from current perceived stress. Mental health was significantly impaired by both cumulative and current perceived stress. Implications for mental health nursing practice and research among Arab Americans are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Albdour
- Maha Albdour, PhD, APHN-BC, RN, College of Nursing, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Thomas Templin
- Thomas Templin, PhD, College of Nursing, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Samuele Zilioli
- Samuele Zilioli, PhD, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jun Sung Hong
- Jun Sung Hong, PhD, School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Mark A Lumley
- Mark A. Lumley, PhD, Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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3
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Sayed L, Alanazi M, Ajrouch KJ. Self-Reported Cognitive Aging and Well-Being among Older Middle Eastern/Arab American Immigrants during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5918. [PMID: 37297521 PMCID: PMC10252503 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20115918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic posed new challenges for cognitive aging since it brought interruptions in family relations for older adults in immigrant communities. This study examines the consequences of COVID-19 for the familial and social support systems of aging Middle Eastern/Arab immigrants in Michigan, the largest concentration in the United States. We conducted six focus groups with 45 participants aged 60 and older to explore participant descriptions of changes and difficulties faced during the pandemic relating to their cognitive health, familial and social support systems, and medical care. The findings indicate challenges around social distancing for older Middle Eastern/Arab American immigrants, which generated three overarching themes: fear, mental health, and social relationships. These themes provide unique insights into the lived experiences of older Middle Eastern/Arab American adults during the pandemic and bring to light culturally embedded risks to cognitive health and well-being. A focus on the well-being of older Middle Eastern/Arab American immigrants during COVID-19 advances understanding of how environmental contexts inform immigrant health disparities and the sociocultural factors that shape minority aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Sayed
- James Madison College, Michigan State University, 842 Chestnut Rd, East Lansing, MI 48825, USA
| | - Mohammed Alanazi
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48825, USA;
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha 67714, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kristine J. Ajrouch
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA;
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Caqueo-Urízar A, Mena-Chamorro P, Urzúa A, Muñoz-Henríquez W, Flores J, Narea M, Irarrázaval M. Mental Health in Indigenous Children and Adolescents: The Contribution of Cultural Backgroud. J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:151-160. [PMID: 35789455 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-022-01374-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to describe and compare the prevalence of mental health problems in Aymara and non-Aymara children and adolescent. The study sample comprised 1839 students from 8 to 19 years, from educational institutions of Northern Chile. Forty-nine percent of students identified with the Aymara ethnic group. The Child and Adolescent Evaluation System was used to evaluate internal and external problems. In Elementary school, Aymara students showed significantly lower scores in externalized problems and in high school, there were significantly lower scores in interiorized, exteriorized and other problems than Non-Aymara students. It seems that the legacy of the Aymara culture has favored the development of protective factors in relation to the mental health of these students. In a context of growing recognition and appreciation of this culture, greater involvement with Aymara culture could promote better mental health of school children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Caqueo-Urízar
- Instituto de Alta Investigación, Universidad de Tarapacá, Calle Antofagasta 1520, Arica, Chile.
| | | | - Alfonso Urzúa
- Escuela de Psicología, Universidad Católica del Norte, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Wilson Muñoz-Henríquez
- Facultad de Educación y Humanidades, Universidad de Tarapacá, Arica, Chile.,Laboratory of Social Anthropology (LAS), Collège de France, Paris, France
| | - Jerome Flores
- Centro de Justicia Educacional CJE, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Psicología y Filosofía, Universidad de Tarapacá, Arica, Chile
| | - Marigen Narea
- Escuela de Psicología & Centro de Justicia Educacional CJE, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matías Irarrázaval
- Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Hospital Clínico, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,MIDAP, Santiago, Chile
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Kindratt TB, Dallo FJ, Zahodne LB, Ajrouch KJ. Cognitive Limitations Among Middle Eastern and North African Immigrants. J Aging Health 2022; 34:1244-1253. [PMID: 35606926 PMCID: PMC9633450 DOI: 10.1177/08982643221103712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate and compare the prevalence of cognitive limitations among Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) immigrants compared to US- and foreign-born non-Hispanic Whites from Europe (including Russia/former USSR) and examine differences after controlling for risk factors. METHODS Cross-sectional data using linked 2000-2017 National Health Interview Survey and 2001-2018 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data (ages >=65 years, n = 24,827) were analyzed. RESULTS The prevalence of cognitive limitations was 17.3% among MENA immigrants compared to 9.6% and 13.6% among US- and foreign-born non-Hispanic Whites from Europe. MENA immigrants had higher odds (OR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.06-3.34) of reporting a cognitive limitation than US-born non-Hispanic Whites after controlling for age, sex, education, hearing loss, hypertension, depression, social isolation, and diabetes. DISCUSSION To further examine cognitive health among the MENA aging population, policy changes are needed to identify this group that is often absent from research because of their federal classification as non-Hispanic Whites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany B. Kindratt
- Public Health Program, Department of Kinesiology, College of Nursing and Health Innovation, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
| | - Florence J. Dallo
- Department of Public and Environmental Wellness, School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Laura B. Zahodne
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kristine J. Ajrouch
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI, USA
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Brown RL, Ciciurkaite G. Disability, Discrimination, and Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Stress Process Model. SOCIETY AND MENTAL HEALTH 2022; 12:215-229. [PMID: 38603117 PMCID: PMC9379597 DOI: 10.1177/21568693221115347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Drawing on data from a community survey with a sizeable subsample of people with physical, intellectual, and psychological disabilities in the Intermountain West region of the United States (N = 2,043), this investigation examined the association of social stressors stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic with ableism or disability-related discrimination. We further assessed the significance of these associations for variation by disability status in psychological well-being with a moderated mediation analysis. Study findings provide clear evidence that greater pandemic-related stressor exposure was associated with greater discrimination, which in turn increased the psychologically distressing aspects of the pandemic for people with disabilities relative to people without disabilities. This set of findings challenges us to think about how we engage in research concerning ableism and the proliferation of macro-level stressors such as those associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings also support the application of a minority stress model in addressing mental health contingencies among people with disabilities-in this case, in examining the pandemic's psychological impact.
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Mikhaylova O, Dokuka S. Anorexia and Young Womens' Personal Networks: Size, Structure, and Kinship. Front Psychol 2022; 13:848774. [PMID: 35519652 PMCID: PMC9063839 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.848774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia is a serious threat to young women's wellbeing worldwide. The effectiveness of mental health intervention and treatment is often evaluated on the basis of changes in the personal networks; however, the development of such measures for young women with anorexia is constrained due to the lack of quantitative descriptions of their social networks. We aim to fill this substantial gap. In this paper, we identify the basic properties of these women's personal networks such as size, structure, and proportion of kin connections. The empirical analysis, using a concentric circles methodology, is based on 50 ego networks constructed on data drawn from interviews with Russian-speaking bloggers who have been diagnosed with anorexia and write about this condition. We conclude that young women with anorexia tend to support a limited number of social ties; they are prone to select women as alters, but do not have a preference to connect to their relatives. Further research is needed to elucidate whether these personal network characteristics are similar among women with anorexia who belong to different age, ethnic, cultural, and income groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofia Dokuka
- Institute of Education, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
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8
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Awad GH, Abuelezam NN, Ajrouch KJ, Stiffler MJ. Lack of Arab or Middle Eastern and North African Health Data Undermines Assessment of Health Disparities. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:209-212. [PMID: 35080949 PMCID: PMC8802571 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2021.306590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Germine H Awad
- Germine H. Awad is with the Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin. Nadia N. Abuelezam is with the Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Boston, MA. Kristine J. Ajrouch is with the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer's Disease, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Matthew Jaber Stiffler is with the Arab American National Museum, Dearborn, MI
| | - Nadia N Abuelezam
- Germine H. Awad is with the Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin. Nadia N. Abuelezam is with the Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Boston, MA. Kristine J. Ajrouch is with the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer's Disease, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Matthew Jaber Stiffler is with the Arab American National Museum, Dearborn, MI
| | - Kristine J Ajrouch
- Germine H. Awad is with the Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin. Nadia N. Abuelezam is with the Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Boston, MA. Kristine J. Ajrouch is with the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer's Disease, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Matthew Jaber Stiffler is with the Arab American National Museum, Dearborn, MI
| | - Matthew Jaber Stiffler
- Germine H. Awad is with the Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin. Nadia N. Abuelezam is with the Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Boston, MA. Kristine J. Ajrouch is with the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer's Disease, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Matthew Jaber Stiffler is with the Arab American National Museum, Dearborn, MI
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9
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Alnojeidi AH, Capo-Lugo CE, Sturgeon JA, Trost Z. Injustice Through Cultural Lens: A Pilot Qualitative Exploration of Pain-Related Injustice Appraisals Among Arab-Americans with Chronic Low Back Pain. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 23:739-753. [PMID: 34718152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The current qualitative study sought to obtain an in-depth understanding of how Arab-Americans conceptualize perceived injustice concerning their chronic low back pain (CLBP) by reflecting on the Injustice Experience Questionnaire (IEQ). Twelve Arab-American adults with CLBP were recruited from a metropolitan area in Alabama using a purposive sampling technique. Participants took part in individual, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews reflecting on each statement from the IEQ. Descriptive data analysis was generated for demographic and pain variables. Directed content analysis was conducted to identify themes and sub-themes. 'Blame and unfairness' and 'severity and irreparability of loss,' the 2 established theoretical factors comprising pain-related injustice appraisal were used as predominant themes. Acceptance emerged as an inductive theme with the following sub-themes: positive appraisal and resilience, attempts to reduce pain, religious values and fate, and belief that everything happening for a reason. The influence of religion was noted across all themes. The current pilot findings suggest that Arabic culture, heavily infused with Islamic beliefs, influences how Arab-Americans conceptualize pain-related injustice appraisals. Additional exploration of the cultural appropriateness of the IEQ among individuals of Arab background is needed to further elaborate on the subject of faith and religious belief suggested by the current study. Perspective: Although the study findings largely reflected established injustice literature constructs, several emergent themes regarding pain-related injustice appraisal were influenced by the participants' culture and religious beliefs. These findings may indicate that specific psychotherapeutic approaches that have been proven effective among some groups may not function similarly in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albatool H Alnojeidi
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Carmen E Capo-Lugo
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - John A Sturgeon
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Zina Trost
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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10
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Dallo FJ, Kindratt TB, Zahodne L. Prevalence of Self-reported Cognitive Impairment Among Arab American Immigrants in the United States. Innov Aging 2021; 5:igaa058. [PMID: 33442566 PMCID: PMC7788314 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Studies evaluating self-reported cognitive impairment among Arab American immigrants have not been conducted. Our objective was 2-fold: (a) to estimate and compare the age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of self-reported cognitive impairment between Arab American immigrants and U.S.- and immigrant non-Hispanic Whites, non-Hispanic Blacks, Hispanics and non-Hispanic Asians and (b) to examine associations between race, ethnicity, nativity status, and cognitive impairment among Arab American immigrants and non-Hispanic Whites (U.S.- and foreign-born) after controlling for explanatory factors. Research Design and Methods We used 18 years (2000–2017) of National Health Interview Survey data (n = 228 985; ages ≥ 45 years). Weighted percentages, prevalence estimates, and multivariable logistic regression models were calculated. Results The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of self-reported cognitive impairment was significantly higher among Arab American immigrants (9.7%) compared to U.S.-born and non-Hispanic White immigrants (~7.4%). Discussion and Implications This is the first study to indicate that ethnic disparities in self-reported cognitive impairment may extend to Arab American immigrants. Additional studies need to be conducted to better understand the prevalence of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence J Dallo
- Department of Public & Environmental Wellness, Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan, US
| | - Tiffany B Kindratt
- Public Health Program, Department of Kinesiology, College of Nursing and Health Innovation, University of Texas at Arlington, US
| | - Laura Zahodne
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, US
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11
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Ajrouch KJ, Vega IE, Antonucci TC, Tarraf W, Webster NJ, Zahodne LB. Partnering with Middle Eastern/Arab American and Latino Immigrant Communities to Increase Participation in Alzheimer's Disease Research. Ethn Dis 2020; 30:765-774. [PMID: 33250623 DOI: 10.18865/ed.30.s2.765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Recruitment and retention of US ethnic groups traditionally underrepresented in research continues to pose challenges. The Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer's Disease (MCCFAD) engages with two underserved immigrant communities in Michigan - Middle Eastern/Arab Americans in metro-Detroit and Latinos in the Grand Rapids area - to recruit and retain two Participant Resource Pools (PRP). Procedures We adapt an existing community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to recruit Middle Eastern/Arab American and Latino adults of all ages for Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) research. Using American Community Survey (2014-2018) data, we compare socio-demographic characteristics of Middle Eastern/Arab Americans and Latinos living in Michigan to our PRPs. Assessment tools and community advisory board feedback identified missteps and culturally sensitive solutions. Main Findings In the first year of MCCFAD activities, 100 Middle Eastern/Arab Americans and 117 Latinos joined the MCCFAD PRPs. Comparisons to state-level data showed that PRP participants were on average older and more likely to be female than the Middle Eastern/Arab American and Latino populations in Michigan. Further, Middle Eastern/Arab Americans in the PRP reported higher education levels while Latinos reported lower education levels than their respective statewide populations. Community partnerships/feedback identified the importance of connecting with community leaders, attending to matters of within-group diversity, as well as language and semantics. Conclusion Partnership with communities to develop culturally targeted and sensitive community health events can fill a significant gap in addressing ADRD health disparities by establishing sustainable relationships to increase participation in ADRD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine J Ajrouch
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI
| | - Irving E Vega
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI
| | - Toni C Antonucci
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Wassim Tarraf
- Institute of Gerontology and Department of Healthcare Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Noah J Webster
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Laura B Zahodne
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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12
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Samari G, Sharif MZ, Alcalá HE. Racial and Citizenship Disparities in Health Care Among Middle Eastern Americans. Med Care 2020; 58:974-980. [PMID: 32947512 PMCID: PMC7572888 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess differences in health access and utilization among Middle Eastern American adults by White racial identity and citizenship. METHODS Data from the 2011 to 2018 National Health Interview Surveys (N=1013) and survey-weighted logistic regression analyses compare Middle Eastern immigrants by race and citizenship on access and utilization of health care in the United States. RESULTS White respondents had 71% lower odds of delaying care [adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=0.34; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.13, 0.71] and 84% lower odds of being rejected by a doctor as a new patient (AOR=0.16; 95% CI=0.03, 0.88) compared to non-White respondents. US citizens had higher odds of visiting the doctor in the past 12 months compared with noncitizens (AOR=1.76; 95% CI=1.25, 2.76). CONCLUSION Middle Eastern immigrants who do not identify as White and who are not US citizens are significantly less likely to access and utilize health care compared with those who identify as White and are US citizens. POLICY IMPLICATIONS This study shows that racial and citizenship disparities persist among Middle Eastern Americans at a national-level, playing a critical role in access to and use of health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goleen Samari
- Department of Population & Family Health, Mailman
School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Mienah Zulfacar Sharif
- Center for the Study of Racism, Social Justice, and Health,
University of California Los Angeles
| | - Héctor E. Alcalá
- Department of Family, Population and Preventative Medicine,
Stony Brook University
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13
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Albdour M, El-Masri M, Hong JS. A Descriptive Study of Bullying Victimization Among Arab American Adolescents in Southeast Michigan Middle and High Schools. J Pediatr Nurs 2020; 55:232-238. [PMID: 32966963 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This cross-sectional study examined the frequency of different forms of bullying victimization (verbal, physical, and social), predictors of victimization, and whether bullying is reported to an adult. DESIGN AND METHODS The study utilized a community sample of 150 Arab American adolescents, age 12 to 16 years. The Adolescent Peer Relations Instrument-Victimization Scale was used to determine the participant's experiences of victimization in the past year. The adolescents indicated where bullying occurred, why, and whether they reported the incidence to an adult. RESULTS Approximately 30% of the study sample reported that victimization occurred occasionally (once a month or more frequent). Classrooms and hallways were the most common locations where bullying had occurred. Country-of-origin and obesity were the most frequent reasons for victimization. Predictors varied among the different forms of victimization; however, cyber-victimization [OR = 24.5; 95% CI 5-119.5)], perceived problematic attire [OR = 8.4; 95% CI 2.2-31.9)], female gender [OR = 5.2; 95% CI 1.2-22.7)], and being overweight [OR = 0.14; 95% CI 0.01-2.6)] all predicted overall victimization. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide a foundation for future research focusing on Arab American adolescents, an underrepresented population, more research is needed to understand the scope of bullying victimization among Arab American adolescents. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS This study will inform future intervention research and practice to consider victimization and related factors among Arab American adolescents. Culturally sensitive and multilevel interventions are imperative to decrease bullying victimization among Arab American adolescents and prevent negative effects on their health and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Albdour
- College of Nursing, Wayne State University, MI, USA.
| | - Maher El-Masri
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Ryerson University, Canada
| | - Jun Sung Hong
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, MI, USA
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14
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Abuelezam NN. Health Equity During COVID-19: the Case of Arab Americans. Am J Prev Med 2020; 59:455-457. [PMID: 32703699 PMCID: PMC7298462 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia N Abuelezam
- Boston College William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.
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15
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Rawwad TA, Washburn M, Torres LR, Sampson M. HIV Knowledge of Middle Eastern and North Africans 18-35 Residing in the U.S.: A Cross Sectional Study. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 35:494-509. [PMID: 32720861 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2020.1785366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current body of literature on the HIV knowledge related to young adult Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) individuals residing in the United States is substantially underdeveloped. As the number of MENA individuals residing in the US continues to rise, there remains a need for research investigating the levels of general HIV knowledge for this unique group. An exploratory cross-sectional design was used for an anonymous online survey of MENA adults ages 18-35 (n = 198) residing in the United States concerning their levels of HIV knowledge. Results showed that less than fifty percent (46.40%) of the sample reported adequate knowledge of HIV transmission and prevention methods. Multiple regression analyses indicate that prior sexual health education, prior HIV testing, a four-year college degree and identification as a Muslim predicted higher HIV knowledge. These findings may assist with the development of MENA specific HIV prevention and education programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Al Rawwad
- College of Pharmacy, University of Houston , Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Micki Washburn
- University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work , Arlington, Texas, USA
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16
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Antonucci TC, Ajrouch KJ, Webster NJ, Zahodne LB. Social Relations Across the Life Span: Scientific Advances, Emerging Issues, and Future Challenges. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-devpsych-121318-085212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence demonstrates the importance of social relations at all stages of life (infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age) and in diverse domains of life (including health and well-being). To illustrate the newest advancements in the scientific study of social relations over the life course, we address five emerging areas of importance: societal and demographic changes in family structure; effects of new technologies on social relations; the fundamental influence of context on social relations, illustrated with the sample case of health; the role of social relations in the unfortunate but pressing crisis of trauma among the increasing number of refugees worldwide; and, finally, effects of social relations on cognitive functioning in late life. Each of these areas highlights critical key concepts and methodological approaches, illustrating that the study of social relations is demanding but holds great promise for meeting the urgent needs of developmental science specifically and society generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni C. Antonucci
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Kristine J. Ajrouch
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106, USA
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197, USA
| | - Noah J. Webster
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106, USA
| | - Laura B. Zahodne
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
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17
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Read JG, Ajrouch KJ, West JS. Disparities in functional disability among Arab Americans by nativity, immigrant arrival cohort, and country of birth. SSM Popul Health 2019; 7:100325. [PMID: 30581961 PMCID: PMC6293045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2018.100325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study contributes to a growing literature that documents the importance of arrival cohort and country of birth for differentiating the health of U.S. immigrants. We use nationally-representative data from nine years of the American Community Survey (2008-2016) to examine if an immigrant health advantage exists among Arab Americans ages 40+ (n = 49,867) and test if differences among the foreign-born vary by arrival cohort (pre-1991, 1991-2000, and 2001+). Results from multivariate logistic regression models find that foreign-born Arab Americans have higher odds of physical and self-care disability, and this varies by immigrant arrival cohort. The post-2001 cohort had the highest odds of both disabilities, while the earlier two cohorts did not differ from the native-born after adjustments for covariates. Compositional differences in birthplace, particularly the large influx of immigrants from Iraq in the most recent cohort, explained these differences. Political instabilities globally have contributed to a growing number of U.S. immigrants with vulnerabilities that might be overlooked when arrival cohorts are not considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen’nan G. Read
- Department of Sociology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kristine J. Ajrouch
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI, USA
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18
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Harfouch O, German D. The Absence of Middle Eastern and North African Sexual and Gender Minority Americans from Health Research. LGBT Health 2018; 5:330-331. [PMID: 29902109 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2017.0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Harfouch
- 1 Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland.,2 Internal Medicine Residency Program, MedStar Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Danielle German
- 3 Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Baltimore, Maryland
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19
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Webster NJ, Ajrouch KJ, Antonucci TC. Sociodemographic Differences in Humility: The Role of Social Relations. RESEARCH IN HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 2017; 15:50-71. [PMID: 30774568 DOI: 10.1080/15427609.2017.1414670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The present research builds upon recent scientific developments in the field of social relations and ongoing advances in the study of humility. We examine whether gender, education, and racial/ethnic group are associated with humility as well as how social relations mediate the association between these sociodemographic variables and humility across the life course. Data are from the Detroit Community Study and were collected via a telephone survey focused on three groups prominent in the metro-Detroit area: Arab Americans, African Americans, and Non-Hispanic White Americans (N=907). Findings indicate that racial/ethnic group membership is associated with humility. Arab Americans and African Americans report greater humility than Whites. Further, social relations partially mediate this association, but only among Arab Americans. Arab Americans report a higher proportion of family than White Americans, which are associated with greater humility. Examination of whether these links depend on age indicates that the partial mediating role of social relations on the link between race/ethnicity and humility is replicated among older, but not younger adults. Findings are discussed within a developmental science perspective to consider the relational aspects of the individual and context over the life course.
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Ajrouch KJ, Zahodne LB, Antonucci TC. Arab American Cognitive Aging: Opportunities for Advancing Research on Alzheimer's Disease Disparities. Innov Aging 2017; 1:igx034. [PMID: 30480122 PMCID: PMC6243697 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igx034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This article highlights the dearth of and need for research on Arab American cognitive aging. We propose that studying cognitive health issues among older Arab Americans provides an innovative opportunity to advance knowledge about causes and consequences of Alzheimer's disease (AD) disparities and refine understanding of factors linked to immigrant health in the United States. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Demographic information is provided on Arab Americans, who are on the cusp of being recognized by the U.S. government as a distinct ethnic group separate from whites. In the tradition of minority aging, we present a broad review of specific issues in the contemporary case of Arab Americans. RESULTS We detail how including Arab Americans provides unique information on the importance of: (i) extending racial/ethnic group comparisons; (ii) linking social experiences to late-life cognitive health; and (iii) incorporating ethnic factors related to immigration and religion in the study of AD disparities. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Studying Arab American cognitive aging provides an innovative opportunity to more fully delineate factors that create and sustain health disparities, with special insights into both causes and consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine J Ajrouch
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan
| | - Laura B Zahodne
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan
| | - Toni C Antonucci
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan
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