The Effects of Ethnic Identity on Discrimination and Depression and Anxiety in a Sample of Arab American Adults

The aim of the study was to clarify how ethnic identity may impact poor mental health outcomes related to discrimination among Arab American adults in Southeast Michigan, USA. 286 respondents completed a health attitudes and behaviors survey. We used structural equation modeling with path and multi-group analyses to examine moderation effects of ethnic identity on the relationship between discrimination and depression and anxiety, and further moderation based on gender. Ethnic identity positively buffered against depression and anxiety associated with discrimination. In the subgroup analysis, ethnic identity was protective for female participants, though not male participants. These findings provide evidence for ethnic identity as a buffer between discrimination and poor mental health among Arab American adults. Mechanisms may include feelings of belonging and social support. The stronger effects for women may be due to their role of transmitting cultural and religious traditions. Future interventions should incorporate ethnic identity as a protective feature for mental health.