Immigration and Sexualities

This entry examines how immigration status (i.e., whether someone is native- or foreign-born in the United States) influences one’s experiences of sexuality, gender, and sexual orientation. Nativity plays an important role in the mental health of ethnic minorities. Long-term prevalence rates of mental illness are lower for female and male immigrants than for U.S.-born individuals. An immigrant’s experience of sexuality may change on arrival in the United States and can be affected by various societal factors, such as gender roles, communication, and education. This entry discusses some factors for clinicians to consider when working with immigrants regarding sexuality and sexual orientation.