Predictors of psychological adaptation of South Asian immigrants in Hong Kong

This study among Pakistanis and Nepalese immigrants (N = 447) investigated the association of socio-demographic factors (age, education, employment, income and length of residence), acculturative stress, perceived discrimination, and perceived social support on their psychological adaptation (in terms of life satisfaction and psychological distress). Results of hierarchical regression analyses show ethnic group differences. For Pakistanis, life satisfaction was more strongly predicted by perceived social support, whereas psychological distress was related to perceived discrimination, acculturative stress and perceived social support. For Nepalese group, predictors of life satisfaction are perceived discrimination and perceived social support, and perceived discrimination and acculturative stress were significantly associated with psychological distress. Implications for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers are also discussed.

► This study examines the psychological adaptation among the South Asians in Hong Kong.
► Results highlight the predictive factors associated with psychological adaptation.
► Provides implications for policy, program promotions and service providers.