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Mental Health Risks in Arab Americans Across the Lifespan

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Biopsychosocial Perspectives on Arab Americans

Abstract

The unique nature of mental health risks, as well as protective factors, in Arab Americans is explored from a developmental perspective. The timing of entry into the USA, relative to age and historical events is considered in terms of the impact on identity as well as the degree and nature of stress experienced. A complex relationship between acculturation and mental health is revealed. The most adaptive pattern of acculturation may depend upon an interaction of personal, cultural, and situational factors, including religious affiliation, education, and nature of relocation. Recent immigrants with high levels of pre-immigration trauma as well as perceived hostility are at risk for mental health problems such as depression, panic, and PTSD. Yet, perceived personal control over hostile environments may enhance resilience. Cultural elements, including an emphasis on shame may limit both help-seeking behaviors, and clinical research. Assessment and treatment practices within a cultural context are detailed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Behavioral Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI, 48128, USA

    Nancy Howells Wrobel

  2. Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, ON, N9B 3P4, Canada

    Ashley Paterson

Authors
  1. Nancy Howells Wrobel
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  2. Ashley Paterson
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Correspondence to Nancy Howells Wrobel .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Curriculum and Instruction, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA

    Sylvia C. Nassar-McMillan

  2. Department of Sociology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan, USA

    Kristine J. Ajrouch

  3. Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada

    Julie Hakim-Larson

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Wrobel, N.H., Paterson, A. (2014). Mental Health Risks in Arab Americans Across the Lifespan. In: Nassar-McMillan, S., Ajrouch, K., Hakim-Larson, J. (eds) Biopsychosocial Perspectives on Arab Americans. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-8238-3_10

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