Meta-analysis of depression among marriage-based migrant women in South Korea

Using meta-analysis, this study examines the effect sizes of the variables related to depression and the moderating effects of depression among marriage-based migrant women in South Korea to determine the implications for human service fields. This study identified 25 peer-reviewed articles from 2000 to 2014 published in either Korean or in English. Results showed that (i) Korean language proficiency and economic hardship had significant effect sizes relative to depression; (ii) the psychosocial characteristics (i.e., acculturative stress, social support, marital satisfaction, life satisfaction, and self-esteem) of this population had medium effect sizes relative to depression; and (iii) use of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale, residence in agricultural areas, average age, and average length of stay in Korea had significant moderating effects. Based on these results, the authors discuss social work practices and policies for this population, suggesting the priorization of marriage-based migrant women in agricultural areas who have lived in Korea for short lengths of time.