AN EXPLORATION OF ACCULTURATION STYLE, ACCULTURATIVE STRESS, AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS IN ARAB AMERICAN MUSLIM ADOLESCENTS

This study examined how heritage culture orientation, mainstream culture orientation, and acculturative stress relate to depression and anxiety among Arab American Muslim adolescents. Using data from 196 participants aged 14–18 living in the Detroit Metropolitan Area, measures assessed cultural orientation, acculturative stress, and psychological symptoms of depression, state anxiety, and trait anxiety. Results showed that greater heritage orientation was associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety, highlighting its protective role. Mainstream orientation was initially linked to lower psychological symptoms, but this relationship became positive or nonsignificant once heritage orientation and acculturative stress were included in the models. Acculturative stress significantly predicted both state and trait anxiety, but not depression, indicating that it is a specific risk factor for anxiety. Overall, the findings suggest that the emotional strain of navigating multiple cultural systems, rather than acculturation itself, contributes to psychological distress. In contrast, maintaining strong connections to one’s heritage culture supports resilience and well-being in adolescence.