Perceived discrimination and depression among Mexican-origin adults in California

We contend that perceived discrimination has an independent effect on depre ssion outcomes among adults of Mexican origin. Using a sample of 3,012 Mexi can-origin respondents in Fresno, California in 1995/96 (ages 18-59) we inv estigate the direct and moderating connections between perceived discrimina tion, acculturative stress, and mental health (CES-D). We also investigate the social patterning of perceived discrimination. While more highly accult urated immigrant respondents were more likely to experience discrimination than their less acculturated counterparts, move highly acculturated U.S. bo rn respondents were less likely to experience discrimination. Discriminatio n was directly related to depression, but this effect was moderated through nativity/country of residence, English-language acculturation, sex, and co untry of education variables. Moderate levels of legal status acculturative stress were especially depressive for native-born U.S. residents.