Social and mental health challenges of urban dwelling Pakistanis in the post 911 era

Background: Since September 11, 2001, Muslim and Middle Eastern immigrant communities in the US have experienced stigma and stereotyping. Hate crimes and mass media characterizations have increased. A large percentage of Muslim immigrants come from Pakistan and have become the victims of harassment and racial profiling. Purpose: To investigate post-911 social and mental health challenges of urban-dwelling Pakistani immigrants living in the United States. Methods: Community based participatory research methods including focus groups (n=7) and individual interviews (n=17) were conducted with Pakistanis living in a large urban community. Discussions focused on family life, community health, cultural expectations, youth issues, and gender concerns. Results: Stereo typing and racial profiling emerged as the number one concern for all age groups throughout the study. Family Life: Pakistanis are divided into first and second generation immigrants. First generation is well settled but the second generation is not as flourishing. Community Health: A large percentage of Pakistanis are self employed and do not have access to healthcare. Cultural Expectations: There is a cultural divergence between Pakistani and American culture and people went further into their shells after 911. Youth issues: Perception of Muslims, stereotyping, and lack of respect were quoted as major concerns for youth. Gender Concerns: Life has changed after 911 and Muslim males, in general, are confronted with difficulties of racial profiling. Most participants conceded that America was a better place for women. Discussion: Identifying key factors in immigrant racial profiling can better inform community health workers about this public health challenge.