Understanding language loss in Chinese immigrant families
Official title: Shared Language Erosion Among Chinese Immigrant Families
Funded at Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-10730856 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how language differences between Chinese immigrant parents and their kids can impact their mental health, especially as they deal with discrimination, and it aims to find helpful ways for families to cope with these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $448,800 |
| NIH project number | 1R15HD112867-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730856 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include Chinese American immigrant families with children aged 0-21 who are experiencing mental health challenges related to language barriers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as part of the Chinese American immigrant community or who do not have children may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how language barriers between Chinese immigrant parents and their children affect mental health outcomes, particularly in the context of rising discrimination and mental health issues. It focuses on the phenomenon of shared language erosion, where children rapidly learn English while their parents struggle to do the same, leading to communication breakdowns. By examining these dynamics, the research aims to identify coping mechanisms and support strategies for families facing these challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health support and communication strategies for Chinese immigrant families.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on shared language erosion is novel, related research has shown that addressing communication barriers can significantly improve family dynamics and mental health outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
Stillwater, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Hua — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Lin, Hua
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.