Abstract
The current study examined the impact of multicultural factors (ethnic identity, acculturation, perceived discrimination, and gender role attitudes) on the mental health of Chinese international students in the U.S. The study was guided by the Multicultural Assessment-Intervention Process (MAIP) model that focuses on multicultural issues imbedded in mental health service delivery and research. Using a convenience sample of 315 Chinese international students currently studying in the U.S., seven standard multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the impact of multicultural factors on mental health. The results indicated that having higher ethnic identity commitment and lower ethnic identity exploration predicted better mental health outcomes. Greater acculturation orientation to either mainstream U.S. culture or Chinese culture generally predicted better mental health outcomes. Higher levels of perceived discrimination predicted poorer mental health outcomes. Having more egalitarian gender role attitudes generally predicted better mental health outcomes for Chinese international students. Clinical implications, limitations, and future research were discussed.