Religion, Immigration-related Factors, and Self-rated Health Among Asian Americans

• In Event: 343 - Section on Medical Sociology Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Section on Medical Sociology Roundtables (one-hour). Table 01. Immigration, Migration, and Health

Abstract

Although research on religious involvement and individual health has increased substantially over past decades, few studies have examined this relationship among Asian Americans. Using the 2008 National Asian American Survey and applying logistic regressions, this study examines (1) whether religious involvement (i.e., religious affiliation and converting to Christianity either before or after immigration) has any effect on self-rated health among Asian Americans; and (2) whether religious involvement interacts with immigration-related factors such as place of birth and English proficiency to affect health. Findings disclose that, compared to those with no religion, individuals with religious affiliation reported better self-rated health. In addition, religious affiliation and English proficiency interact to affect health such that the effect of having religion is more salient among those with higher level of English proficiency. In terms of conversion, individuals who converted to Christianity reported worse health compared to others. Our findings indicate that some aspect of religious involvement, such as religious affiliation, is beneficial for the health of Asian Americans and the effect is likely to be modified by some immigration-related factors.

Author

• Ki Tae Park, University of Hawaii