Perceived Social Discrimination, Social Support, and Mental Health Outcomes in Pakistani Slum Residents

Abstract

The purpose of this quantitative study was to evaluate association between perceived social support, social discrimination and mental health outcomes in Pakistani slum residents A convenient sampling methods was used to collect data from 300 participants age ranging between 18 to 40 years (M=28.78, SD= 6.99).  Data was collected utilizing Demographic information form, perceived social Support (MSPSS), perceived Discrimination scale, and General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28).  The findings of the study indicate a significant relationship between perceived discrimination and mental health (p=-.28**) with higher level of perceived discrimination associated poorer mental health outcomes. Additionally, the result of independent t- test revealed that individuals living in nuclear families experience more social discrimination as compared to those in joint families.  Furthermore, females reported higher level of perceived social support as compared to male. The findings highlight the complex interplay between family system, gender, social support, and their collective impact on the mental state of individuals living in the slum areas. The study underscores the need for targeted intervention to address discrimination, mental health, and social support issues among the residents of slum areas in Pakistan.

Keywords: Perceived Social Support, Mental Health, Perceived Discrimination, Pakistani Slum, Gender Differences, Family Structure