The influence of nativity/birthplace, neighborhood cohesion, and duration lived in the neighborhood on psychological distress

TL;DR

This study examines how birthplace, neighborhood cohesion, and time lived in a neighborhood affect psychological distress in US adults.

Contribution

The study reveals how duration of residence and neighborhood cohesion interact with birthplace to influence psychological distress.

Findings

Shorter duration of residence (≤10 years) is linked to higher psychological distress.

Low or medium neighborhood cohesion increases odds of psychological distress.

Foreign-born individuals show lower distress for shorter durations but higher after more than 10 years.

Abstract

Nativity/birthplace and neighborhood cohesion are potential contributing factors to psychological distress. This study explores the impact of nativity/birthplace and neighborhood cohesion on moderate-severe psychological distress among United States (US) adults, considering the duration lived in a neighborhood.

Using the 2013–2018 National Health Interview Survey data, we conducted a stratified analysis based on years lived in the neighborhood (≤10 years [n = 96,175] and >10 years [n = 68,187]). Bivariate chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the statistical differences and associations between moderate-severe psychological distress and nativity/birthplace, and neighborhood cohesion, while adjusting for other covariates.

Individuals with 10 years or less of residence reported higher levels of moderate-severe psychological distress than those with more than 10 years (22.3 % vs. 18.1 %). Low or medium neighborhood cohesion, regardless of duration of residence, was associated with significantly higher odds of moderate-severe psychological distress compared to high cohesion. Foreign-born individuals had higher odds of psychological distress after more than 10 years in a neighborhood, although this difference was not statistically significant. However, they had lower odds of psychological distress after 10 years or less in the neighborhood compared to US-born individuals. Similarly, the interaction of foreign-born status and 10 years or less of residence in a neighborhood showed decreased odds of psychological distress.

These findings underscore the importance of strong social cohesion in neighborhoods for positive mental well-being. Establishing community initiatives to enhance neighborhood social cohesion is crucial.