Abstract
The purpose of this dissertation was to determine factors that contribute to Pakistani American individuals' quality of life. This quantitative study utilized a cross-sectional survey method design that was distributed through an online survey to recruit Pakistani individuals residing in the United States. The sample consisted of 351 participants who reported demographic information and completed the Vancouver Index of Acculturation (VIA), Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure Revised (MEIM-R), Perceived Ethnic Discrimination Questionnaire (PEDQ), Islamic Attitudes Toward Women Scale (IAWS), Muslim Attitude Towards Religion Scale (MARS), and the Quality of Life Inventory (QOLI). A multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine which of the variables served as significant predictors of Pakistani American quality of life, resulting in one model. Additionally, a one-way between subjects ANOVA was conducted to compare the generational statuses of participants on their level of quality of life. The results indicated that acculturation Mainstream Dimension, Religiosity, and perceived racism and discrimination Disvaluing Action made a statistically significant contribution to the prediction of quality of life. Also, results showed that first generation Pakistani Americans reported significantly higher levels of quality of life compared to second generations. The implications of these findings are that Pakistani Americans' experiences with racism and discrimination, their connection to a new mainstream culture, attitudes towards religion, and generational status are indicators of life satisfaction. The study also identified limitations and future directions for research.