The relationship between Immigration Status and Mental Health Latoya McCormmock, SOC. 4996

Introduction This study investigate the association between immigration status and mental health. By the year 2050, the USA will be over half non-white, this demographic change is largely driven by migration and fertility patterns among immigrants, particularly Hispanics and Asians. Mental Health of immigrants has implications for the nation’s mental health and economic productivity. According to the theory of immigrant optimism, immigrants enter the US with a resiliency that protects them from the hardships and stressors they experience during migration and acculturation.

Hypothesis Immigrants are less likely than native born Americans to report depression.

Sample 2000 General Social Survey. Date Collected: February, March, and April of Mode: National Probability Telephone survey N=1,419 Response Rate is ~70%

Main findings Immigrants report lower levels of depression than do Native born Americans.

Discussion The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between immigration status and mental health. Findings support the hypothesis that Immigrants are more likely than native born Americans to report lower levels of depression. Findings support theory of immigrant optimism, that optimistic outlook provides emotional protection against hardships they may encounter in a new home.