Trauma Prevalence and Other Risk Factors in American Muslim Emerging Adults

Research Overview

This research examines trauma exposure and associated risk and protective factors among American Muslim emerging adults, generally between the ages of 18 and 29. Emerging adulthood is a developmental period characterized by identity exploration, instability, changing responsibilities, and important life transitions.

These experiences may intersect with culturally specific stressors, including discrimination and social marginalization.

The study seeks to address gaps in existing psychological literature by examining broader trauma exposure, mental health risk factors, maladaptive coping strategies, and differences across diverse groups within American Muslim populations.

Background and Rationale

Psychological research does not always adequately represent the experiences of culturally and religiously diverse populations. American Muslim emerging adults navigate developmental transitions alongside culturally specific stressors, yet remain underrepresented in trauma and mental health literature.

Research Objectives

• Examine the prevalence and breadth of trauma exposure among American Muslim emerging adults.
• Identify psychological risk factors associated with mental health outcomes.
• Explore protective factors and sources of resilience.
• Examine maladaptive coping strategies, including substance use.
• Explore differences across diverse groups within American Muslim populations.

Research Status

Research Team

• Mahnoor Ahmad, MAT
• Yara Cherif
• Nuha Mansuri
• Ecenaz Yetkin
• Wafia Rahman
• Umar Syed
• Bradley Smith, PhD

Publications & Findings

Findings and publications will be shared here when available.