Degree of acculturation and adherence to Asian values as correlates of psychological distress among Korean immigrants

Abstract

Background: Although psychological distress among Asian immigrants adjusting to a Western society has been reported in the clinical literature, empirical research support for this phenomenon is lacking. This is particularly true regarding Korean immigrants, an Asian population that is currently immigrating to non-Asian countries in large numbers. Aims: This study investigated how degree of acculturation and adherence to Asian values correlate with psychological distress among Korean immigrants (N = 118) in the United States. Method: Participants from the Midwestern United States (N = 118) completed survey packets including a demographic questionnaire, the Suinn-Lew Asian Self-Identity Acculturation Scale, the Asian Values Scale, and the Brief Symptom Inventory 18. Results: A multiple regression analysis revealed that less acculturation, stronger adherence to Asian values, and fewer years of living or being educated in the host country cumulatively predicted heightened psychological distress in this population. However, no single variable alone significantly predicted psychological distress, indicating that additional factors not studied here may influence distress symptoms among Korean immigrants. Conclusion: Psychological distress among Korean immigrants living in a Western culture can be identified, and it is associated with a combination of lifestyle factors that impact mental health.