TY - JOUR TI - An exploratory study of the experiences of Chinese immigrants of Fujianese descent in the United States DO - https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/T3K939T3 PY - 2016 AB - This exploratory study investigated the intersection of psychological, legal, cultural, and immigration issues in the acculturation process of Fujianese immigrants in the United States, in order to provide psychologists and other professionals with the knowledge and the insight to work successfully with Fujianese clients. Thirteen Fujianese immigrants participated in interviews discussing different aspects of their psychosocial experiences, and a qualitative analysis of the interviews was conducted using a grounded theory approach (Corbin & Strauss, 2014). Results revealed themes consistent with preexisting literature, including a common belief that coming to the United States is a means to prosperity, freedom, and honor; as well as an awareness that diverse challenges impact Fujianese immigrants' acculturation. Other key themes highlighted social connection as a source of emotional and pragmatic support; identified living in America as an experience that fostered growth in skills and perspectives; and revealed that stigmatized perceptions of mental health hinder help-seeking behavior. The current study revealed notable gaps in the Fujianese immigrant mental health literature with regard to culturally sensitive therapy when working with the Fujianese, including a lack of attention to themes such as dismantling the stigmatized perception of mental illness, and bridging the barriers between knowledge, access, and service delivery. Implications for future research and clinical practice included designing replication studies that investigate a more diverse spectrum of Fujianese demographics, as well as offering suggestions for ways in which clinicians can implement culturally sensitive interventions. Additionally, suggestions for community mental health programs, psychologists and other clinicians, policymakers, and lawyers included developing community outreach through psychoeducation, collaborating with churches, training attorneys to provide empathic counsel, and advocating for funding to train and recruit more bilingual Fujianese therapists. KW - Clinical Psychology KW - Chinese Americans KW - Fujian Sheng (China)--Emigration and immigration LA - eng ER -