Research Sense for Korean American Therapy (Samuel Y. Kim)

We discuss a study entitled: “Bullying and Discrimination Experiences Among Korean-American Adolescents.”

Did you know that one in three Korean American teenagers have reported being bullied in the past? This paper is the first-ever research conducted on the experiences of Korean American adolescents. We discuss how bullying affects the mental health of students, the different perspectives of bullies and victims when it comes to the reasons for bullying, and what parents can do to help their children when they face bullying.

You can find the abstract here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1016/j.adolescence.2011.01.004

In this episode, we discuss a research paper titled "Please Forgive Me, Asian and Pacific Islander American Suicide Notes" by Y. Joel  Wong, Kuo Deng, and Yi Li published in 2021.

Please note: Today’s episode is related to suicide. Listener discretion is advised.

About 30% of Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA) individuals leave suicide notes before taking their lives. What do these notes say, and what can we learn from these notes? We discuss the study’s findings, revealing that APIA females and youths are most likely to leave suicide notes. The notes often express psychological distress, feelings of burdening others, and feelings of not belonging somewhere. We discuss why interpersonal relationships can be a protective factor against suicidal ideation and encourage open dialogue and seeking professional help to strengthen strained relationships.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-86645-001

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of disordered eating and body image pressures that Asian American women experience. Despite eating disorders having the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, studies show that while 74% of individuals recognize their need for help, only 28% pursue treatment – and among Asian American women, this number drops to a mere 6%. Join us as we explore the nuances of navigating dual cultural expectations—both American and Asian—and how these can lead to heightened pressures around body ideals. This episode offers insight into the social, structural, and personal barriers preventing treatment and highlights the importance of family support and self-compassion in fostering healthier perspectives on body image.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Faap0000270

We're diving into Chapter 5 of "Korean American Families in Immigrant America: How Teens and Parents Navigate Race" by Sumi Okazaki and Nancy Abelmann. This insightful ethnographic study explores the nuanced dynamics of Korean American families, focusing on the unique challenges and experiences they face. In our previous episode, we laid the groundwork for understanding the broader context of these stories. In this episode, we zoom in on the Park family. Mrs. Park, an accomplished musician, and her daughter Jenny, a high school student with a burgeoning musical career, exemplify the blend of cultural expectations and personal aspirations. Through their story, we explore themes of parental pressure, cultural identity, and the complexities of immigrant life. Join us as we reflect on these intricate relationships and how they mirror our own experiences, offering a rich tapestry of insights into the Korean American family experience.

Link to the book: https://nyupress.org/9781479836680/korean-american-families-in-immigrant-america/

We discuss a study entitled: Predicting Psychological Distress Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic by Machine Learning: Discrimination and Coping Mechanisms of Korean Immigrants in the U.S. by Choi, Hong, Kim, & Park published in 2020.

The pandemic and acts of hate and racial discrimination all took a toll on the Korean and Asian American communities. Though there were many atrocities and so many people feeling burnt out, there were many who were able to carry on in some way. What was so special about those who were able to carry on and what does resilience really mean?

You can find the abstract here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32825349/

We’re diving into Chapter 1 of "Understanding Korean Americans’ Mental Health: A Guide to Culturally Competent Practices, Program Developments, and Policies.” 

Join us as we unpack the critical issues facing Korean American youth and their families, drawing from groundbreaking research and poignant case studies. From academic pressures to identity crises, this episode offers a nuanced look at the unique mental health landscape of Korean American adolescents. We'll also explore the barriers to and facilitators of mental health service use, providing valuable insights for families and professionals alike. Whether you're a parent, a mental health practitioner, or simply interested in cross-cultural psychology, this episode promises to be an eye-opening and informative discussion that highlights the importance of culturally competent mental health care. 

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-78166-013

Welcome back, everyone! We're excited to kick off Season Four with something a bit different. In this three-part series, we'll delve into the book Korean American Families in Immigrant America: How Teens and Parents Navigate Race by Sumi Okazaki and Nancy Abelman. This captivating work offers an in-depth exploration of the experiences of Korean American families, shedding light on their unique challenges and triumphs. Over the next three episodes, we'll unpack three chapters of this book, beginning with today's episode, where we set the stage by discussing the book's background and the fascinating methodologies used by the authors. Join us as we explore the intricate dynamics of these families and the profound insights that Okazaki and Abelman bring to the table. 

Link to the book: https://nyupress.org/9781479836680/korean-american-families-in-immigrant-america

In this episode, we delve into the study "An Exploration of Racial Differences of Psychosocial Stressors and Their Association With Mental Health Between Asian and White Sexual Minority Men: The P18 Cohort Study." This paper was recently published in 2023 by Nguyen K. Tran, Thomas P. Le, Kristen D. Krause, Richard J. Martino, and Perry N. Halkitis.

The study shows high levels of mental health struggles and thoughts of suicide in Asian American men who identify as gay or bisexual. We look into why this is happening, such as feeling isolated from the LGBT community and dealing with how the Asian community reacts to their sexual orientation. Our aim is to highlight the specific challenges and mental health issues faced by these individuals, providing insights for mental health professionals and for friends and family in the Asian American community. Throughout our talk, we mainly use the term "LGBT community" to stay consistent with the language used in the research paper.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-35776-001

We discuss a study entitled: The mediating role of Korean immigrant mothers' psychological well-being in the associations between social support and authoritarian parenting style by Seo, Cheah, Özdemir, Hart, Leung, & Sun published in 2018.

Many of us are familiar with strict parenting and may know of others who had a "tiger" mom growing up. What if the mother's "tiger mom-ness" was partially due to the mother's psychological well-being? Moreover, what if her psychological well-being was because of the loss of social supports after immigrating to the US? This study looks that the relationship among the mother's social supports, well-being, and authoritarian parenting style.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2017-51188-001

We discuss Chapter 13: Culturally Competent Treatment Engagement for Korean Americans with Mental Health Issues by Haein Son in the book Understanding Korean Americans' Mental Health: A Guide to Culturally Competent Practices, Program Developments, and Policies published in 2021.

When looking for a therapist, we want to find someone who will understand us. Part of that understanding comes from cultural competence. This episode explores what it means to be culturally competent, especially when working with Korean Americans around mental health.

Preview of the book chapter: https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=ZZc2EAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA281&dq=Culturally+Competent+Treatment+Engagement+for+Korean+Americans+with+Mental+Health+Issues+Chapter+(13)&ots=_Io7H7fGZ2&sig=hu2x6Gop0X9dIueAqNEUZ8oaGR4#v=onepage&q=Culturally%20Competent%20Treatment%20Engagement%20for%20Korean%20Americans%20with%20Mental%20Health%20Issues%20Chapter%20(13)&f=false  

Book on the publisher's site: https://rowman.com/isbn/9781793636461

We're delving into Chapter 7 of "Korean American Families in Immigrant America: How Teens and Parents Navigate Race" by Sumi Okazaki and Nancy Abelmann. In this episode, we focus on the Hyun family, who immigrated to the US in 2003 with their teenage sons. Their story offers a raw and authentic glimpse into the challenges of late immigration, cultural adaptation, and family dynamics. The chapter provides a unique perspective on the immigrant experience, following the family's journey from their initial struggles to a 10-year follow-up. Through the Hyuns' story, we reflect on the complexities of immigrant life, generational differences, and the ongoing process of finding one's place in a new country. Join us as we unpack these multifaceted experiences, drawing parallels to our own lives and gaining deeper insights into the Korean American immigrant experience.

Link to the book: https://nyupress.org/9781479836680/korean-american-families-in-immigrant-america/

We'll be discussing a paper entitled Sense of Indebtedness Toward Parents: Korean American Emerging Adults' Narratives of Parental Sacrifice by Hyeyoung Kang and Reed W. Larson, published in 2014 in the Journal of Adolescent Research. 

Korean American adolescents of immigrant parents experience a lot of conflict and strife in their families. A big question is do the views of the teenagers change over time? If it does, how does it change?

You can find the abstract here: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0743558414528979

We discuss a study entitled: The Intersectional Prototypicality Model: Understanding the Discriminatory Experiences of Asian American Women and Men by Wong and McCullough published in 2021.

Why aren't you ___ enough? Whether that is being Asian, American, masculine, feminine, strong, and caring, Asian Americans experience a lot of discrimination. We go over a paper that discusses the Intersectional Prototypicality Model to help understand these discriminatory experiences such as Asian American women not being seen as leaders or Asian American men being viewed as unattractive in dating apps.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-28159-001

An introduction of the Research Sense podcast co-hosts, Dr. Samuel Kim and Sharon Kim. We share our backgrounds as well our goals for this podcast.

We discuss a study entitled: The Experience of Acculturative Stress-Related Growth from Immigrants’ Perspectives by Junhyoung Kim and Hakjun Kim, published in 2013.

What are some of the challenges that Korean American seniors have faced when they immigrated to the United States? Additionally, what are some positive changes they have experienced as a result of acculturation? This article highlights three positive outcomes that have resulted from the acculturation process, including improved mental fortitude, a deeper understanding of American culture, and opportunities to engage in meaningful activities.

You can find the abstract here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3402/qhw.v8i0.21355

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating topic: the relationship between acculturation and the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among Asian Americans. While only one-third of Americans use alternative medicine practices like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and meditation, a striking 75% of Asian Americans engage in at least one form of CAM annually. From Sam's memories of his grandmother’s homemade hanyak to Sharon’s experiences with acupuncture, we bring personal stories that highlight the cultural significance and complexity of these practices. Tune in to learn how CAM is intertwined with cultural identity, generational differences, and the modern healthcare landscape, as well as what these findings mean for both Asian American patients and their healthcare providers.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2022-53007-001

We discuss a study entitled: Discrimination and Ethnic-Racial Socialization Among Youth Adopted from South Korea into White American Families by Schires, Buchanan, Lee, McGue, Iacono, and Burt published in 2018.

Thus far, the studies we have covered were largely about Asian or Korean Americans living with their Asian and Korean American families. This episode, we take a look at the experiences of Korean Americans who have been adopted into White American families and discuss what protects them from later mental health issues.

You can find the abstract here: https://srcd.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/cdev.13167

In this episode, we uncover the hidden dynamics shaping the academic success of Asian American students. Is it all about "tiger parenting," or are there more profound influences at work? We explore the findings of Chang and Shi’s meta-analysis, revealing how warm family environments, supportive schools, and tight-knit communities create the foundation for thriving students. Contrary to the model minority myth, high-achieving students often come from warm and supportive homes rather than strict, authoritarian parenting. Join us as we unpack the pressures, myths, and truths that define the Asian American experience—and discover how families and communities can foster resilience and excellence without burning out.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Faap0000252

We discuss a study entitled: Willingness to use mental health counseling and antidepressants in older Korean Americans: the role of beliefs and stigma about depression by Park, Jang, and Chiriboga published in 2018.

There is considerable stigma against mental health within the Korean American community, but how does that stigma affect a vulnerable group such as older Korean Americans? This episode dives into a study looking at older Korean Americans and what contributes to their willingness to take medications and seek out professional help for mental health issues.

You can find the abstract here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27764962/

In this episode, we discuss a 2023 study on successful aging among Asian Americans, highlighting differences from models based on White Americans. While traditional models emphasize physical and mental health, mastery, and life engagement, the study identifies positive emotions and higher education as the key predictors of successful aging for Asian Americans. We also share personal stories about our grandparents to stress the importance of fostering relationships for positive aging experiences. Join us for our last episode of Season 4!

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2022-53108-001

In this episode, we dive into a recently published study titled "A Meta-Analytic Review of Asian American Life Satisfaction." The study was authored by Kristina Tran, Ashly Bennett, Aryele Jackson, Hannah Proctor, and Christie N. Scollon in 2023.

This research article is a groundbreaking move as it is the first meta-analysis on Asian Americans' life satisfaction. The researchers analyzed 36 studies to understand the factors that affect the life satisfaction of Asian Americans. We discuss various factors that influence their life satisfaction, such as collectivism, acculturation, generational status, income, education, and experiences of discrimination. The episode reveals a surprising finding that culture has a more significant impact on an individual's happiness than their geographical location.

Join us to explore a thought-provoking discussion that might change the way you approach the casual "How are you?" question.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-34531-001

We discuss a study entitled: Acculturative Strategies and Mental Distress Among Asian American College Students: The Role of Asian Values Across Acculturative Strategies by Suh, Goergen, Nelson, & Flores published in 2020.

It's not unusual to get asked or even being criticized for how Asian or American you're acting, especially as an Asian American. This article explores the nuances of that question and how it relates to the mental health of Asian Americans.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2020-59608-001

We discuss a study entitled: Promising Results from the Use of a Korean Drama to Address Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors on School Bullying and Mental Health among Asian American College-Aged Students by Van My Ta Park, Joyce Suen Diwata, Nolee Win, Vy Ton, Bora Nam, Waleed Rajabally, and Vanya Jones, published in 2020.

We all remember PSAs (Public Service Announcements) growing up, as it is a common tool to raise awareness of problems within a community or society. But, what if instead of contrived PSAs, you could use a well-produced K drama to raise awareness of mental health issues in a group of people? This episode will dive into a study that use K dramas to see if it would change attitudes and behaviors of Asian American College students around bullying.

You can find the abstract here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32182641/

We are excited to announce that Season 3 is here! Co-hosts Dr. Samuel Kim and Sharon Kim share their experiences during the one-year hiatus and their goals for the upcoming season

In this special podcast episode, we had the amazing opportunity to chat with Dr. Keiko McCullough, an assistant professor in the Counseling Psychology program at the University of Denver. We previously discussed two of their research papers in Season 1 Episode 4 and Season 2 Episode 5, but this time, we talked to the researcher directly about their background and journey into academia. In today’s episode, Dr. McCullough talks about growing up in the Midwest with a mixed-race family and the importance of representation in media. We also get some insider tips on how they draw inspiration from everyday observations, art, and entertainment. And if you’re a graduate student, you don’t want to miss out on the valuable advice Dr. McCullough gives as a professor. 

This episode was recorded in 2023.

We discuss a study entitled: Parental Attachment Among Korean American Adolescents by Wansoo Park published in 2009. The parents' relationship with their children is often discussed as such an important protective factor. However, not many studies look specifically at Korean American parental relationships. Today's episode, we dive into a study that examined the different kinds of relationships, or attachments, that parents and their children have in Korean American families.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-11864-003

We discuss a study entitled: The Hidden Injury of Class in Korean-American Language Brokers' Lives by Hyeyoung Kwon, published in 2014.

Many Korean families who immigrate to the US are faced with the challenges of a new language and culture. In those families, the children are often those with the most fluent English skills and become the language brokers for the family. What happens to these children when they have to be part of difficult conversations and learn about the darker side of the family's problems?

You can find the abstract here: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0907568213483597

We discuss a study entitled: Exploring the Connections Between Watching Asian American YouTubers, Racial Identity, and Self-Esteem by Keiko McCullough, Y. Joel Wong, and Kuo Deng, published in 2021.

There has been a growing number of Asian American media in the recent years. In particular, YouTube has brought rise to Asian American content creators that are widely viewed. How does consuming media that feature Asian Americans influence the identity and self-esteem of its Asian American viewers?

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2020-76214-001

We discuss Chapter 9: Shame and Perfectionism in Korean American Culture by Kwiryung Kim Yun in the book Understanding Korean Americans' Mental Health: A Guide to Culturally Competent Practices, Program Developments, and Policies published in 2021.

Sometimes you work hard and do everything, and at the end of the day, it just doesn't feel right. What are the influences of how Korean Americans understand and navigate shame and perfectionism and what does that mean for therapy?

Preview of the book chapter: https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=ZZc2EAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA193&dq=Shame+and+Perfectionism+in+Korean+American+Culture&ots=_Io6E2dI20&sig=6-X2nRVu3uUtlX7JbHAQumhWWAo#v=onepage&q=Shame%20and%20Perfectionism%20in%20Korean%20American%20Culture&f=false

Book on the publisher's site: https://rowman.com/isbn/9781793636461

We discuss a study entitled: Asian Americans’ Mental Health Help-Seeking Attitudes: The Relative and Unique Roles of Cultural Values and Ethnic Identity by Shahid, Weiss, Stoner, and Dewsbury published in 2021.

So few Asian Americans seek out mental health help. The authors of this paper thought that Asian American cultural values may be influencing the desire to seek out help from a mental health professional. Is it really possible that cultural values can have a part in whether or not we get help?

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-22808-001

We discuss Chapter 15: Beyond Immigration and the Family System: Korean American Mental Health in the Context of Historical and Cultural Trauma by Kristin Kim-Martin in the book Understanding Korean Americans' Mental Health: A Guide to Culturally Competent Practices, Program Developments, and Policies published in 2021.

Family and family history is filled with so many stories, and those stories have both hurt and hope in them. This episode, we explore the history of Korean Americans and how this past, both shared and individual to our own families, have shaped us to be who we are.

Book on the publisher's site: https://rowman.com/isbn/9781793636461

In today's episode, we delve into an insightful paper titled "Examination of Korean Immigrant Mothers’ Parenting Practices: By Using the Framework of Bilinear Acculturation," authored by Eunju Yoon, Yoonsun Choi, Jeong-Eun Suh, and Sarah Galvin in 2021. 

The discussion revolves around acculturation and enculturation, specifically focusing on Korean immigrant mothers' parenting practices in the U.S. We break down the concepts of acculturation and enculturation, emphasizing how these factors shape parenting styles. We explore how Korean immigrant parents blend their traditional values, such as family harmony and interdependence, with the more egalitarian and open communication practices prevalent in American culture. We also touch upon the study's findings, highlighting the importance of autonomy and independence in influencing positive outcomes for the children, including lower depression levels and improved academic performance.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-10956-001

We discuss a book chapter entitled: Suicidal Behavior among Korean American: Cultural Factors and Implications for Intervention by Sung Seek Moon, Anderson Sungmin Yoon, Haein Son, and Jae Won Kim published in 2021.

In this episode, we will be talking about suicide. If this is a sensitive topic for you, you may wish to skip this episode. Suicide is a major problem within the Korean American community. What are the cultural factors that can contribute to suicide among Korean Americans?

Preview the book chapter: https://www.google.com/books/edition/Understanding_Korean_Americans_Mental_He/ZZc2EAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Chapter+12+Suicidal+Behavior+among+Korean+American:+Cultural+Factors+and+Implications+for+Intervention+Moon+Yoon+Son&pg=PA253&printsec=frontcover

Book on the publisher's site: https://rowman.com/isbn/9781793636461

We'll be coming back soon with the first episode of Season 2! In this preview, we'll be talking about some of the studies we plan to cover in the upcoming season. We hope you'll join us!

We discuss a study entitled: Racial Discrimination, Distress, Coping Motives, and Alcohol-Related Problems Among U.S. - Born Asian American Young Adults by Iwamoto, Kane, Negi, Collado, Tofighi published in 2022.

It's not secret that there are a lot of Asian American college students who drink alcohol during their university days. But, does it mean that if a student drinks a beer, that it's a problem? Not exactly. This jumps into the nuance of not so much the problem of drinking, but the why these students drink as being the source of drinking problems.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2022-18589-001

We discuss a study entitled: Role of Perfectionism in the Career Decision Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations of Asian American College Students by Han Na Suh and Lisa Y. Flores (2022)

Making decisions about one's career can be a difficult and stressful one to make. What affects these decisions among Asian American college students? How do the traits of self-efficacy, outcome expectation, and perfectionism all influence what could be one of the most decisions in a person's life?

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-04630-001

We discuss a study entitled: The emotional, cultural, and relational impact of growing up as parachute/satellite kids in Asian American transnational families by Tsong, Tai, & Chopra published in 2021.

It's not unusual to hear about families in Korea or other Asian countries talking about sending their children to the US to get a good education and have better opportunities in life. Yet, what happens to the mental health of these kids when they are sent away, and how do they think about the experience of being away from all that they knew? 

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-24993-001

In this episode, we delve into the complex issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) among Korean Americans, discussing key insights from chapter 10 in Understanding Korean Americans’ Mental Health: A Guide to Culturally Competent Practices, Program Developments, and Policies. We uncover alarming statistics that show high rates of IPV in the Korean American community, explore unique cultural factors contributing to this issue—such as traditional patriarchal values, immigration stress, and cultural barriers—and discuss the stigma and barriers that hinder victims from seeking help. We also highlight encouraging developments, including faith leader training programs and community-based organizations working to support survivors. Tune in to learn more about these cultural nuances, the importance of education and awareness, and available resources for those affected.

You can find the abstract here: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353445933_Intimate_Partner_Violence_among_Korean_Americans_in_the_United_States

We discuss a study entitled: Transmission of Intergenerational Migration Legacies in Korean American Families: Parenting the Third Generation by Lana Kim, Carmen Knudson-Martin, and Amy Tuttle published in 2019.

Going through research studies on Korean Americans, many of them seem to talk about the cultural divide between the 1st generation and 2nd generation Korean Americans. What's unique about this study is that it takes a look at how the 3rd generation Korean Americans are being parented and what is being passed down to this next generation.

You can find the abstract here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10591-018-9485-7 

We discuss a study entitled: Culturally Specific Parent Mental Distress, Parent-Child Relations and Youth Depression Among Korean American Families by Yasui, Kim, and Choi published in 2018.

Families are a major part of a Korean American's mental health, whether it's the presence or absence of them, whether they provide resilience or bring about frustration. How do Korean American families talk about mental health? Why do immigrant parents so often talk about their digestion when there is something going on? And how does the family system contribute to the mental health of both the parents and the children?

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2018-29409-001

In this episode, we unpack the "model minority" stereotype, exploring how it affects Asian Americans' self-esteem and identity. We trace the term’s origins to the 1960s, when it was used to praise Asian Americans for hard work and determination. Over time, however, it has evolved into a double-edged sword, setting unrealistic expectations and being weaponized to downplay systemic racism. We discuss how mindsets—whether fixed or growth-oriented—play a crucial role in how these stereotypes impact self-esteem, as explored in recent research. The study found that Asian Americans who internalize the "hard work" aspect often exhibit higher grit and self-esteem, whereas those with a fixed mindset tend to struggle more. We conclude with the implications for parents, educators, and therapists, emphasizing the importance of fostering growth mindsets to navigate these societal pressures.

You can find the abstract here: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2024-42205-001