Cross-cultural comparative study of psychological distress between older Korean immigrants in the United States and older Koreans in South Korea

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to answer questions about the similarities and differences in the prevalence and distribution of psychological distress across these populations. Methods: Survey data from older Koreans between the ages 60 and 79 from the two countries (n = 480) was analyzed descriptively and in hierarchical multiple regressions. The stress coping framework was used as a conceptual model Results: This study found significantly different prevalence of psychological distress in both countries. About 13% of older Korean immigrants(US) experienced ‘severe’ psychological distress versus 21% of their counterparts ( Korea). Health status and overall financial status were significantly associated with the experience of psychological distress in both countries, while income was not significantly associated with psychological distress. Hierarchical multiple regression revealed significant associations between family relationships and help-seeking behavior among older Korean immigrants in the United States while there were significant associations between social support, social networks and psychological distress among older Koreans in South Korea. Conclusion: This is the first time that a comparative study has been used to understand psychological distress among older Koreans in both countries. The findings build on prior research on social support and social networks as stress coping buffers, adding a much-needed understanding of how stressors and different types of resources influence psychological distress outcomes.