Moderated Linguistic Acculturation and Perceived Group Social Capital on Economic and Occupational Stress among People of Mexican Descent

Abstract

Acculturation plays an important role in Hispanics’ work experiences. Differences in acculturation lead to increases in discrimination that impedes economic and social mobility. This study examines the acculturation and social capital associated with various groups on economic/occupational stress. A convenience sample composed of mostly Mexican-Americans (N = 322) pursuing higher education completed several surveys related to acculturation, economic stress, and social capital. Hierarchical regression results indicate that media, social, and linguistic acculturation and the acculturation interaction term were significant in the final model. Social capital gained from friends and community members was also related to economic stress. The findings from this study identify the stressful intersection between various areas of acculturation and economic stress.