Objective:

Clarify the meaning of acculturation stress for the Hispanic immigrant, in addition to knowing each of the dimensions and characteristics of the concept, in order to better understand the needs of the immigrant living in the United States.

Methods:

The concept analysis was done through the eight steps proposed by Walker and Avant.

Results:

Three dimensions of the acculturation stress concept were identified: (1) personal stressors, (2) environmental stressors and (3) social stressors. Repentance, guilt, and denial were identified as antecedents in the concept. In general, the consequences are reflected in the mental health of the Hispanic immigrant. In addition, the measurement instruments that assess acculturation stress were recognized.

Conclusions:

A clear definition of the acculturation stress concept was obtained, which will help to estimate the construct validity of the measurements of this concept. The most frequently reported dimensions are considered in the stress inventory in Hispanics; however, it is recommended to analyze the construct validity of the concept. It would be important to consider the consequences derived from acculturation stress in the prevention and treatment of mental health.