INTERGROUP RELATIONS AND CHANGING NEIGHBORHOODS ACROSS THE LIFE COURSE

摘要

The U.S. older adult population is becoming more diverse with immigration rates reaching levels not seen since the early 20th century. A continuing influx of immigrants often comes with strained well-being for both the immigrant and host populations. This study uses a life course framework to investigate the extent to which personal (efficacy, education) and social (network % co-ethnic) factors explain individuals’ trust of others in their neighborhood and their psychological well-being. Data are from a probability sample of metro-Detroit including Arab (N=334) and White (N=253) Americans. Regression analyses show social factors influence trust differentially by age. Among older Arab Americans, the ethnic composition of their networks did not influence perceptions of trust in neighborhood, yet for younger Arab Americans a more co-ethnic network was associated with less trust. Personal factors influence well-being regardless of age. Findings highlight how social and personal factors together influence intergroup relations and well-being.