Interpersonal mediators linking acculturation stressors to subsequent internalizing symptoms and self‐esteem in latino adolescents

Abstract

Abstract The specific aim of this study was to examine pathways leading to internalizing symptoms and self‐esteem in Latino adolescents. Adolescent feelings of interpersonal humiliation, family conflict and commitment, and friendships with peers were investigated as potential mediators linking acculturation stress to subsequent adolescent self‐esteem and internalizing symptoms. Path analyses on data from a sample of 288 Latino adolescents (average age 15 years; 66% foreign‐born) showed that acculturation conflicts and perceived discrimination were risk factors for both internalizing problems at baseline and parent–adolescent conflict 6 months later. Baseline internalizing problems, and Time 2 variables (humiliation, parent–adolescent conflict, negative peer relationships, and changes in familism) mediated the effects of acculturation stress on Time 3 (T3) internalizing symptoms and self‐esteem. Latino cultural involvement was a key cultural asset, impacting T3 internalizing symptoms and self‐esteem by decreasing feelings of humiliation and by promoting familism. Familism was also a critical cultural asset associated with lower parent–adolescent conflict and higher self‐esteem. Study limitations and implications for practice with Latino families were discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.