Protective Effect of Social Support Following Discrimination Varies by Group: Implications for Psychosis Risk Among Asian American, Latine, and White Young Adults.

INTRODUCTION

Discrimination is a risk factor for psychotic symptoms among minoritised individuals. Social support has been shown to be a broad protective factor for stressors like discrimination and for psychosis outcomes. However, it is unclear whether social support equally benefits all groups.

METHODS

In this study, 134 young adults identifying as Asian American, Latine, or non-Hispanic White reported on recent experiences of discrimination, perceived social support, and subclinical psychotic and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Distinct moderation effects of social support on the association between discrimination and psychosis and depression were found in the NHW and Asian American groups. Above average social support mitigated the effects of discrimination in the NHW group. For Asian American young adults, social support was not sufficient to mitigate the effects of discrimination on psychosis or depression outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevention of psychotic disorders among Asian and Asian American groups may require targeting distinct coping strategies to address disparities in illness outcomes.