Mixed Methods Study Protocol: Language Identity, Discrimination, and Mental Health among Multilingual 1.5 Generation Asian/Asian American Immigrant Young Adults

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2024 Sep 30;21(10):1311. doi: 10.3390/ijerph21101311.

Abstract

Language identity, an understudied factor, can influence isolation and discrimination, leading to disparities in well-being and mental health among immigrants. This study aims to investigate the role of language identity on structural racism and discrimination among 1.5 generation Asian/Asian American immigrants in a diverse U.S. state. We developed a three-step sequential approach: Stage 1-qualitative analysis (1A, focus group discussion; 1B, in-depth interviews); Stage 2-quantitative analysis (2A, language identity measurement scale; 2B, cross-sectional online survey; 2C, multivariate multiple linear regression); Stage 3-another round of qualitative analysis (3A, follow-up in-depth chronological interviews). Therefore, this study will contribute to the field by introducing a novel three-step mixed methods approach, marking a notable improvement over conventional explanatory or exploratory sequential designs.

Keywords: 1.5 generation; health disparity; language identity; language proficiency; mental health; mixed methods study.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Asian* / psychology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Emigrants and Immigrants* / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Language
  • Male
  • Mental Health*
  • Multilingualism
  • Racism
  • United States
  • Young Adult