Latinos have been identified as a population at high risk of developing mental health problems. The magnitude of mental health problems among Latinos has been inferred from their socioeconomic and migratory experiences. There is a need to know whether particular Latino subgroups are at risk so that prevention and intervention models can be accurately and appropriately formulated. The aims of this study were to explore among Dominicans: (1) the direct and indirect effects of sociodemographic factors (age, gender, years of residency, marital status, and education) and skin tone on psychological distress; (2) the relationships between various stressors (acculturative and economic) and psychological distress; (3) the direct effect of perceived discrimination on psychological distress; (4) the possible interactive or synergistic effects of perceived discrimination and other domains of stress on psychological distress; and (5) the role of social support and mastery as stress moderators. Data for this study was collected from a sample of 120 Dominicans, with a mean age of 40.6 (range of 18 to 85 years), living in the Greater Boston Area in Massachusetts. Due to the exploratory nature of this study, a non-probability sample was used.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1) Identify factors which make Dominicans a population at risk for mental health problems. 2) Assess whether acculturation and economic stressors, skin tone and perceived discrimination are related to depression among Dominicans. 3) Identify what factors moderate the stress of migration among Dominicans.
Keywords: Hispanic, Mental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.