Perceived Discrimination and Depression Symptoms Among Hispanic Students: Biculturalism as a Moderator Variable

Depression is a serious and debilitating health disorder that affects many aspects of an individual’s life. Although almost everyone is susceptible to depression, there appears to be a discrepancy among ethnicities. Several researchers have linked perceived discrimination to depression and depressive symptoms in ethnic minorities, especially Hispanic Americans (e.g., Berkel et al. 2010; Kim, 2002; Vermeesch et al., 2013). Researchers have provided evidence suggesting that biculturalism (i.e., the dual adaptation to ethnic and mainstream cultures) may be a protective factor for Hispanic Americans. Furthermore, biculturalism might moderate the effects of perceived discrimination on depression (Berkel et al., 2010). The current study investigated if biculturalism moderated the relationship between perceived discrimination and depression among a sample of Hispanic origin college students. The results from this study supported findings from past research that suggested experiencing perceived discrimination can lead to the development of depressive symptoms. Further, the study also found evidence that biculturalism is negatively correlated to depressive symptoms.