Religiosity and Well-Being Among Mexican-Born and U.S.-Born Mexicans: A Qualitative Investigation

In this study, 40 Latinas/os of Mexican origin (20 Mexican-born and 20 U.S.-born) from the Southwest United States participated in in-person qualitative interviews centered on two interrelated aims. The first aim was to better understand participants' perceptions regarding their religiosity, as well as their view of the relationship between religiosity and their well-being. The second aim explored generational influences on participants' descriptions of religiosity. Using thematic analysis, we found generational differences in how participants described their religiosity. Specifically, Mexican-born immigrants perceived that their religiosity was informed by their social connections, having more life stressors, and traditional upbringing. U.S.-born Mexican Americans, however, perceived themselves as being less interested in social connections and having fewer life stressors relative to than Mexican-born immigrants. These perceptions seemed to contribute to a reduced interest in religion. In addition, participants also viewed religiosity as helping their psychological well-being. This was generally seen with Mexican-born immigrants who described that social support, a religious locus of control, and adherence to religion-specific morals and guidelines were aspects of religiosity commonly connected to their well-being. Clinical and research implications are discussed.