Using the Stress Paradigm and Hispanic Health Paradox to Examine Psychological Distress among Different Latino Subgroups

• In Event: 145 - Regular Session. Mental Health: Social Antecedents

Abstract

Utilizing data from the National Latino and Asian American Study (NLAAS), we compare and contrast the influence of the Stress Paradigm (SP) and Hispanic Health Paradox (HHP) indicators and their relation to psychological distress while investigating the association between subjective dimensions of socio-economic status (SES) and psychological distress among different Latino groups (Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, and Other Latinos). Our results suggest that both theories offer different explanation to the mental health of Latinos. Our findings indicate that for Latinos as a group, there is a strong association between subjective indicators of SES and psychological distress. Although the association between subjective SES and psychological distress seem to be similar among all Latino groups, separate analyses by Latino ethnic subgroups reveal considerable differences. The analyses of Latino ethnic subgroup differences is an important step to fully understand the various social processes associated with the mental health of different Latino groups in the United States.

Authors

• Fernando I. Rivera, University of Central Florida

• Ethel G. Nicdao, University of the Pacific