Sense of belongingness, discrimination, and mental health: Associations and buffering effects of sense of belonging on mental health among Finnish native and immigrant-origin youth

Abstract

A sense of belonging is crucial for mental health and well-being, but immigrants may find achieving a sense of belonging elusive. This study examined the relationship between sense of belonging and mental health among Finnish native, and first- and second-generation immigrant adolescents (N = 61 540) in Finland. Moreover, we estimated whether sense of belonging buffered the negative effect of experienced discrimination on mental health. Immigrants were split into two groups based on their countries of origin: Iraq, Iran, Somalia, and Afghanistan (MENAP, predominantly forced migration), and to immigrant adolescents from other countries (OCO, predominantly voluntary migration). Using structural equation modelling, we estimated the association of sense of belonging with symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety, and positive mental well-being. Finally, we conducted moderation analyses to estimate whether sense of belonging mitigated the negative effect of discrimination on mental health. Our findings revealed a strong negative link between sense of belonging and symptoms of depression, and anxiety, particularly among first-generation MENAP youth. The positive relation of sense of belonging with mental well-being was weaker among all groups, especially among first-generation. Importantly, sense of belonging buffered the negative effect of discrimination on mental health, mostly with similar estimates across groups. We discuss the possible reasons explaining the group differences and present possible actions needed for schools and mental health services in addressing the needs of immigrant youth.