Toward a micro-level perspective on acculturation among U.S. Hispanic college students: A daily diary study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Cultural Studies

Background:

• Acculturation is a dynamic process influencing immigrant well-being.
• Previous research often uses macro-level or cross-sectional designs.
• Understanding daily acculturation experiences is crucial for mental health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine daily fluctuations in acculturation components.
• To investigate the impact of these daily changes on psychological outcomes.
• To provide a micro-level perspective on acculturation among Hispanic college students.

Main Methods:

• A 12-day diary study was conducted with first- and second-generation Hispanic college students in Miami.
• Acculturation components (practices, identities, values) were assessed daily.
• Well-being, internalizing, and externalizing symptoms were measured at baseline and endpoint.

Main Results:

• Daily fluctuations in English speaking comfort negatively predicted well-being and increased internalizing/externalizing symptoms.
• Variations in collectivist values and ethnic identity were associated with lower well-being and increased anxiety/depressive symptoms.
• Daily acculturation shifts significantly predict psychological distress.

Conclusions:

• Daily volatility in comfort with English, collectivist values, and ethnic identity are particularly distressing.
• Micro-level acculturation dynamics are critical for understanding psychological adjustment.
• Interventions should consider addressing daily acculturation stress in Hispanic youth.