Perceived discrimination, acculturation, and coping: a study of Persian/Dari speakers in Australia

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Copyright: Hafshejani, Atena
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Abstract
This thesis examined the relationship between discrimination and mental health, the possible moderating impact of acculturation and coping response on this relationship, and its link to residency status. Three studies were designed in order to achieve the objectives. The community-based study used an epidemiological community sample of Persian/Dari speakers in high density areas of Sydney. This methodology yielded recruitment of 94 participants over a period of 17 months: 60 refugees and 34 immigrants. Results indicated that discrimination was associated with adverse mental health outcomes, but not physical impairment, suggesting respondents differentiated between mental and physical consequences of discrimination. Refugees were almost 4 times more likely than immigrants to report discrimination, although the difference was statistically marginal. In relation to acculturation the 4-fold model (assimilation, integration, separation, multiculturalism) did not appear to characterize the population effectively since acculturation preferences were mixed, suggesting a “selective” model in assessing acculturation preferences. The majority of participants used emotion-focused coping strategies, however, there were no differentiations between emotion- and problem-focused coping styles. The small sample size and conceptual limitations made it difficult to assess the possible moderating influences of acculturation and coping on the discrimination-psychological health relationship. The linkage study was designed to address the small sample size, particularly in the temporary residency group in the community-based study and comprised 39 temporary and 38 permanent protection visa holders. A series of regression analyses revealed that length of detention in immigration centres and temporary residency took precedence over discrimination in contributing to psychological distress. In a follow-up study of 32 temporary protection visa holders from the linkage study, 4 months after the initial interview, results indicated that there were no observed improvements in mental health over time. There was, however, slight improvement in everyday mental capabilities. Theoretical, clinical, social and research implications of the thesis findings are discussed in the final chapter.
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Author(s)
Hafshejani, Atena
Supervisor(s)
Silove, Derrick
Steel, Zachary
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Publication Year
2010
Resource Type
Thesis
Degree Type
PhD Doctorate
UNSW Faculty
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