Social integration and mental health of Somali refugees in the Netherlands: the role of perceived discrimination

Abstract

Background: We assess whether social integration is associated with mental health among Somali refugees in the Netherlands, and how this association is shaped by perceived discrimination. Methods: We performed linear regression and formal mediation analyses on Survey Integration Minorities data (n = 417) to assess whether the effects of two facets of social integration – Dutch language proficiency and informal contacts with natives – on mental health were mediated or suppressed by perceived discrimination. Results: Dutch language proficiency was positively associated with mental health, but also with perceived discrimination. Informal contact with natives was not significantly associated with mental health or perceived discrimination. There was marginally significant evidence (p