The impact of perceived ethnic group discrimination on depressive symptoms among Kurdish refugees in Iraq: Does ethnic self-esteem and cultural identity matter?

Abstract

The study is intended to examine the impact of perceived ethnic group discrimination on depressive symptoms among Kurdish refugees in Iraq. In addition to that study has also examined the mediating role of ethnic self-esteem and Kurdish cultural identity in the relationship between the perceived ethnic group discrimination and depressive symptoms. People believe that perceived ethnic discrimination (PED) is a long-term source of stress, and there is more and more evidence linking PED to poor physical and mental health outcomes among ethnic minority populations. This research focuses on Kurdish refugees in Iraq. 613 responses were used for the analysis. SEM-PLS is used for analysis purposes. The findings of the research that has been carried out on psychological aspects as potential PED buffers have been equivocal. There is growing evidence relating perceived ethnic discrimination (PED) to poor physical and mental health outcomes among ethnic minority populations. People are under the impression that perceived ethnic discrimination (PED) is a factor that contributes to long-term stress. The results of study implies that the perceived ethnic group discrimination has significant positive impact on the depressive symptoms among Kurdish refugees in Iraq. The study will help the policymakers and researchers in understanding the issues related ethnic group discrimination and depressive symptoms among Kurdish refugees in Iraq.