Clinical Characteristics of Alcohol Drinking and Acculturation Issues Faced by Korean Immigrants in the United States

摘要

Koreans in the United States can be grouped based on their diverse immigration histories and levels of acculturation: 1st-generation (Il-Sei), 1.5 generation (Il-Jom-O-Sei), 2nd-generation (Yi-Sei), 3rd-generation (Sam-Sei), and so on. Generational differences often account for different norms and behaviors regarding alcohol consumption. Difficulties for 1st-generation Koreans arise when seeking treatment for mental health and alcohol or substance abuse problems because of language barriers and cultural differences. The purpose of this study is to explore the characteristics of alcohol consumption by Il-Sei Koreans who were born, raised, and educated in Korea and immigrated to the United States after age 18. Immigration stress, Korean drinking norms and traditions, the influence of Confucianism, acculturation, availability of Korean alcohol, and health treatment disparity issues are addressed.