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Context and Timing Matter: Language Brokering, Stress, and Physical Health

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health volume 22, pages 1248–1254 (2020)Cite this article

Abstract

Using a bioecological perspective, the current study explored the dynamic relationship between a proximal process (i.e., language brokering [LB]), LB perceptions, environmental stress context, and timing of LB experiences on well-being. College students (N = 559; 19.6% Asian American, 32.0% European American, 33.5% Latino, and 14.9% multiracial/other ethnicity) reported on LB frequency, feelings about LB as a burden or source of role reversal, perceived stress, age of LB onset, and health (i.e., height, weight, somatic symptoms). Among brokers (M = 23.13, SD = 5.66; 78.3% female), younger LB age onset was significantly associated with higher BMI when perceived stress was high but unrelated when perceived stress was low. For individuals who reported high perceived stress or high LB role reversal, but not both, younger LB age onset was associated with greater somatic symptoms. These results highlight the importance of psychosocial context and timing of life events in capturing the effect of immigrant and family experiences on physical health.

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Author information

Affiliations

  1. Child and Adolescent Development, California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA, 91330, USA

    Shu-Sha Angie Guan

  2. Liberal Studies Department, California State University, Monterey Bay, Seaside, 93955, USA

    Robert S. Weisskirch

  3. Child and Family Development Department, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, 92182, USA

    Vanja Lazarevic

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  1. Shu-Sha Angie Guan
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  2. Robert S. Weisskirch
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  3. Vanja Lazarevic
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Correspondence to Shu-Sha Angie Guan.

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Guan, SS.A., Weisskirch, R.S. & Lazarevic, V. Context and Timing Matter: Language Brokering, Stress, and Physical Health. J Immigrant Minority Health 22, 1248–1254 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-020-00989-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-020-00989-5

Keywords

  • Language brokering
  • Family processes
  • Bioecological model
  • Immigrant health
  • Physical health