Acculturative Family Distancing and Depressive Symptoms Among Latinas: The Role of Intergenerational Cultural Conflict

Abstract

Latinas are at an increased risk of experiencing depressive symptoms in comparison to Latinos and non-Latino/a peers. Emerging work indicates that acculturation-related factors at the family level can influence the socioemotional well-being of Latinas. Thus, the current study examined the relations among acculturative family distancing (AFD), depressive symptoms, and intergenerational family conflict (ICC) with 457 Latina young adults (Mage = 19.08 years). Participants reported their experiences of AFD, ICC, and depressive symptoms. Results demonstrated that AFD was positively associated with depressive symptoms, and analyses of indirect effects showed that ICC partially explained this association. A further analysis showed that both dimensions of AFD were associated with depressive symptoms, while only conflict based on family expectations partially explained this association. Findings support the role of AFD in Latinas’ well-being and the importance of including forms of conflict that are more salient for Latinas when examining the impact of AFD on well-being. Finally, results point to potential avenues of prevention to support Latinas’ socioemotional well-being.