Open AccessBiopsychosocial Factors Associated with Depression among U.S. Undergraduate International Students
Author(s) -
Fanyi Zeng,
Nelson C. Brunsting,
Nicole Brocato,
Lisa Kiang,
Eranda Jayawickreme,
Sonali Kathuria
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of international students
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2166-3750
pISSN - 2162-3104
DOI - 10.32674/jis.v12i1.2914
Subject(s) - biopsychosocial model , optimism , psychology , clinical psychology , ethnic group , coping (psychology) , depression (economics) , sociocultural evolution , social psychology , psychiatry , sociology , anthropology , economics , macroeconomics
Using a biopsychosocial framework, our study examined the biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors associated with depression among a cross-sectional sample of undergraduate international students (N = 712) attending 28 U.S. colleges and universities. Consistent with hypotheses, regression analysis revealed that self-esteem, life satisfaction, and coping self-efficacy were negatively associated with depressive symptoms, and that ethnic minority status, perceived discrimination, and financial concerns were positively associated with depressive symptoms. Contrary to predictions, age, optimism, friendships, and school belonging were not significant predictors, and perseverance predicted increased depression in this sample. The novel findings provide implications for researchers, university administrators, and counselors.