Acculturation and health-related quality of life among Vietnamese immigrant women in transnational marriages in Taiwan.

PURPOSE

To examine associations between demographic variables, acculturation, and health-related quality of life among Vietnamese immigrant women in transnational marriages in Taiwan.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey of 203 participants in southern Taiwan. Instruments included a demographic inventory, the Suinn-Lew Asian Self-Identity Acculturation Scale, and the Short Form Health Survey-Version 2.

FINDINGS

Most participants had low acculturation levels. Length of residency, number of children, marital status, level of education, religion of spouse, and employment status of spouse significantly correlated with level of acculturation, as did mental health, bodily pain, vitality, and social functioning.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Programs are needed to encourage social assimilation for Vietnamese immigrant women in Taiwan. Culturally sensitive medical evaluations will ensure early treatment of mental and physical health problems caused by the stress of acculturation.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

An increased understanding of variables affecting Southeast Asian immigrant women's acculturation process will improve health status.