2025 Theses Doctoral

Perceived racial discrimination during COVID-19 and psychological distress among East and Southeast Asian American young adults: Examining the roles of ethnic identity and social support

Wong, Hiu Man Sylvia

The COVID-19 pandemic amplified anti-Asian racism in the United States, heightening mental health risks for Asian Americans. This study examined associations between perceived racial discrimination and psychological distress—depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—and tested whether ethnic identity (exploration and commitment) and social support (family, friends) moderated these associations among East and Southeast Asian American young adults. Participants were 429 adults (ages 20–33) from Wave 4 of the COVID-19 Adult Resilience Experiences Study (February–June 2022). Validated self-report measures and moderation analyses (PROCESS in SPSS) were used.

Discrimination was positively associated with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Ethnic identity exploration correlated with greater distress, whereas commitment was linked to lower distress. Exploration amplified the discrimination–anxiety link, highlighting the emotional toll of identity exploration in a discriminatory society. Guided by self-categorization and rejection sensitivity frameworks, individuals actively exploring ethnicity may become more attuned to racial stressors, increasing vulnerability during an inherently uncertain process. Interventions fostering critical consciousness and community connection may transform exploration into an empowering experience.

Social support from family and friends predicted lower distress overall and buffered the effects of discrimination on depression and anxiety—but more so at lower than higher discrimination levels. Under severe racial stress, interpersonal support may be insufficient, underscoring the need for systemic change. These findings call for interventions that not only bolster individual resilience but also confront structural conditions sustaining anti-Asian racism.