Comparative levels of psychological distress in a pre-migratory refugee population

Author(s): Webb, J. A.

Journal/Book: Aust N Z J Psychiat. 1997; 31: P O Box 126, Karrinyup 6018, Australia. Australian Nz J Psychiatry. 543-548.

Abstract: Objective: This study compares levels of psychological distress in a pre-migratory sample of Vietnamese Amerasians with those in a like-aged, non-migratory sample of Vietnamese living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Method: Subjects were assessed using two measures developed and validated for Vietnamese clinical populations in the United States: the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 and the Vietnamese Depression Scale. Results: Amerasians had significantly higher symptom levels on the depression scale of the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25, but not on the other measures utilised. Conclusions: Amerasians' higher levels of depressive symptoms are probably a result of their traumatic lives in Vietnam, but may also reflect acute situational factors or selection bias.

Note: Article McKelvey RS, Princess Margaret Hosp Children, Roberts Rd, Subiaco, Wa 6008, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): migration; psychological distress; Vietnamese Amerasians; STRESS

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