Longer-term immigrants residing in the United States exhibit physical health decline related to higher body mass index (BMI). Theories on immigrant acculturation have been used to examine health patterns by length of stay in the United States. The purpose of this cross-sectional study, guided by the Schwartz model of acculturation, was to examine the effect of acculturation and length of stay in the United States on BMI in a sample of Haitian immigrants living in the Northeast Metropolitan area. The research question was used to examine the effects of acculturation and length of stay on BMI in the convenience sample of 116 Haitian men and women, aged 18 years and older, who had relocated to the United States for 3 years or more. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and medical records from a participating health clinic and then analyzed by conducting a multiple linear regression. According to study results, acculturation, length of stay, age, gender, and physical activity were not significant predictors of BMI change. An ancillary analysis using the subscales of acculturation revealed similar results. This study may provide positive social change by enabling health providers to understand the beliefs, values, and practices of Haitian immigrant groups and the acculturation pattern of individuals when providing care for this population.

Meeting the psychological needs of the culturally and linguistically different has always posed challenges to mental health providers. The Haitian community in South Florida has been one such group for whom mental health services have been less than readily available. Some reasons include a lack of trust from the community, a pejorative cultural framework of mental health services, as well as, a lack of competent Haitian Creole speaking therapists armed with culturally congruent therapeutic skills. These present as challenges for community based-agencies attempting to meet the mental health needs of this population. It is even more problematic for humanitarian voluntary agencies (VOLAG) that sponsor refugees and support them throughout their resettlement efforts. Additionally, the 2010 earthquake has given rise to gender based violence disproportionally impacting women and girls (Amnesty International, 2011) who are now seeking safe haven in the U.S. and particularly South Florida. Tasked with assisting in the resettlement of Haitian refugees/asylees/parolees, many psychologically affected by pre and post migration traumas, these agencies must find unique solutions to help their clients toward the ultimate goal of resettlement, self-sufficiency (Stenning, 1996). This Applied Clinical Project (ACP) showcases a community-university partnership with a VOLAG. Participatory Action Research (PAR) protocol was used as an explorative tool to learn from stakeholders about the efficacy of incorporating Solution-Focused Group Therapy (SFBT) in a resettlement integrative program for Haitians. Results will also contribute to the future development of a toolkit to support family therapists in adapting their western trainings to provide culturally and linguistically competent mental health services.

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