Meaning In Life and Psychological Well- Being

Latinos comprise the largest and one of the fastest growing minority groups in the United

States (U.S. Census Bureau, 2012). Moreover, 48% of the 38.1 million foreign-born individuals

in the U.S. reported being Hispanic origin (Grieco, 2010). Immigrants from Latin American

countries face multiple stressors in the immigration process including legal documentation status

(Covazos-Rehg, Zayas, & Spitznagel, 2007), separation from loved ones (Rusch & Reyes, 2012),

discrimination (Flores et al., 2008), language barriers, and access to health care services (Perez &

Fortuna, 2005). Often these stressors are compounded and contributing to poor health and

wellness (Perez & Fortuna, 2005). Among various factors that affect Latino immigrants'

adjustment and wellness, meaning in life (MIL) may be particularly important for this population

since having purpose and significance in one's life allows individuals to endure stressful

situations (Dunn & O'Brien, 2009).