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Rastogi R, Woolverton GA, Lee RM, Yip T, Stevens C, Chen JA, Liu CH. Microaggression and discrimination exposure on young adult anxiety, depression, and sleep. J Affect Disord 2024; 363:141-151. [PMID: 39029681 PMCID: PMC11343644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.07.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing research examines social determinants of health, including structural oppression and discrimination. Microaggression - subtle/ambiguous slights against one's marginalized identity - is distinct from discrimination, which typically presents as overt and hostile. The current study investigated the comparative effects of each exposure on young adult anxiety, depression, and sleep. Race-stratified analyses investigated patterns across groups. METHODS Young adults (N = 48,606) completed the Spring 2022 American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment III. Logistic regressions tested odds of anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and sleep disturbance in association with microaggression and discrimination exposure. RESULTS Microaggression and discrimination equally predicted increased likelihood of anxiety symptoms (ORMicro = 1.42, ORDiscrim = 1.46). Discrimination more strongly predicted depressive symptoms (OR = 1.59) and sleep disturbance (OR = 1.54) than did microaggression (ORDepress = 1.24, ORSleep = 1.27). Race-stratified analyses indicated stronger associations between the each exposure and poor mental health in Whites than Asian American, Black/African American, and Hispanic or Latino/a/x respondents. LIMITATIONS Microaggression and discrimination exposure were each assessed using a single item. The outcome measures were not assessed using validated measures of anxiety, depression, and sleep (e.g., GAD-7, MOS-SS); thus results should be interpreted with caution. Analyses were cross-sectional hindering our ability to make causal inferences. CONCLUSIONS The findings provide preliminary evidence that microaggression and discrimination exposure operate on health in distinct ways. Racially marginalized individuals may demonstrate a blunted stress response relative to Whites. Treatment approaches must be tailored to the particular exposures facing affected individuals to maximize benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritika Rastogi
- Department of Pediatrics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Richard M Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Tiffany Yip
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Courtney Stevens
- Department of Pediatrics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychology, Willamette University, Salem, OR, USA
| | - Justin A Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine/NewYork-Presbyterian, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cindy H Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Li Verdugo J, Kong Z, Sembukutti Liyanage DS, Keum BT, Moody MD, Oh HY. Associations between vicarious discrimination and mental health among young adult college students: Findings from the 2020-2021 Healthy Minds Study. J Affect Disord 2024; 361:760-767. [PMID: 38925312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor mental health among young adults in higher education is a growing concern. In recent years, the visibility of racism has sharply risen. Vicarious discrimination is defined as the secondhand witnessing of racism, and given society's increased accessibility to social media and the Internet, addressing indirect violence is urgently needed to inform anti-racism and mental health efforts. The current study examined associations between vicarious discrimination and mental health across a large sample of young college students in the United States. METHODS We analyzed data from the Healthy Minds Study (HMS; 2020-2021; N=130,566) and used multivariable logistic regression to examine whether past-year vicarious discrimination was associated with various mental health outcomes, adjusting for age, gender, race/ethnicity, and direct discrimination. RESULTS The sample was predominantly white (n=31,438, 63.66%) and female-identifying (n=34,313, 69.49%) with an average age of 21.1 years. Approximately 35.9% of the sample endorsed experiencing vicarious discrimination. Vicarious discrimination was associated with greater depression (OR:1.97; 95% CI: [1.86,2.09], p< 0.001), anxiety (OR:1.82; 95% CI: [1.72,1.92], p<0.001), languishing (OR:1.75; 95% CI: [1.65,1.87], p<0.001), perceived need for treatment (OR:2.24; 95% CI: [2.10,2.40], p<0.001), suicidal ideation (OR:1.86; 95% CI: [1.73,2.01], p<0.001), suicide plan (OR:1.91; 95% CI: [1.71,2.14], p<0.001), suicide attempt (OR:1.89; 95% CI: [1.51,2.36], p<0.001), self-injurious behavior (OR:2.0; 95% CI: [1.88,2.12], p<0.001), and loneliness (OR:1.67; 95% CI: [1.58,1.77], p<0.001). DISCUSSION Consistent with growing literature, vicarious discrimination was associated with poorer mental health among young college students. Additional research should investigate moderators, mediators, and interventions to support those who may be impacted indirectly by discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliann Li Verdugo
- University of Washington School of Social Work, United States of America.
| | - Zifang Kong
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, Southern Methodist University, United States of America
| | | | - Brian TaeHyuk Keum
- Department of Counseling, Developmental, and Educational Psychology, Boston College, United States of America
| | - Myles D Moody
- Department of Sociology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Hans Y Oh
- University of Southern California Dworak Peck School of Social Work, United States of America
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Anisman H, Doubad D, Asokumar A, Matheson K. Psychosocial and neurobiological aspects of the worldwide refugee crisis: From vulnerability to resilience. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 165:105859. [PMID: 39159733 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Anisman, H., Doubad, D., Asokumar, A. & Matheson, K. Psychosocial and neurobiological aspects of the worldwide refugee crisis: From vulnerability to resilience. NEUROSCI BIOBEHAV REV, XXXX. Immigration occurs between countries either to obtain employment, for family reunification or to escape violence and other life-threatening conditions. Refugees and asylum seekers are often obligated to overcome a uniquely challenging set of circumstances prior to and during migration. Settlement following immigration may pose yet another set of stressors related to acculturation to the host country, as well as financial insecurity, discrimination, language barriers, and social isolation. Here we discuss the multiple consequences of immigration experiences, focusing on the health disturbances that frequently develop in adults and children. Aside from the psychosocial influences, immigration-related challenges may cause hormonal, inflammatory immune, and microbiota changes that favor psychological and physical illnesses. Some biological alterations are subject to modification by epigenetic changes, which have implications for intergenerational trauma transmission, as might disruptions in parenting behaviors and family dysfunction. Despite the hardships experienced, many immigrants and their families exhibit positive psychological adjustment after resettlement. We provide information to diminish the impacts associated with immigration and offer strength-based approaches that may foster resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Anisman
- Carleton University, Department of Neuroscience, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - D Doubad
- Carleton University, Department of Neuroscience, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - A Asokumar
- Carleton University, Department of Neuroscience, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - K Matheson
- Carleton University, Department of Neuroscience, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6, Canada
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Helminen EC, Behari K, Scheer JR. A compassion microintervention targeting stress reactivity among sexual minority women and transgender/nonbinary people: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2024; 145:107660. [PMID: 39121992 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2024.107660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sexual minority women (SMW) and transgender and/or nonbinary (TNB) people report more adverse health outcomes (e.g., depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, substance use) relative to heterosexual, cisgender people, often due to the additional stress burden from experiencing stigma. Physiological and emotional stress reactivity are mechanisms through which high cumulative stress contributes to adverse health outcomes. The randomized controlled trial (RCT) described in this study protocol examines whether a single-session compassion microintervention may attenuate physiological and emotional stress reactivity to the minority stress Trier Social Stress Test (MS-TSST) among SMW/TNB people. This study will also examine whether the compassion microintervention reduces depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and substance use from baseline to one-month follow-up, and assess microintervention acceptability. METHODS This protocol describes a two-arm parallel RCT. Participants are recruited online and at in-person events (e.g., Pride events). Participants complete baseline measures online (e.g., demographics, anxiety symptoms) and then complete an in-person lab visit that includes the compassion microintervention (or no training control). Immediately after the intervention period, participants complete the MS-TSST. Measures of physiological (i.e., blood pressure, cortisol) and emotional (i.e., negative affect, state anxiety) reactivity are collected throughout the lab visit. Participants also complete a one-month follow-up survey. Participants randomized to the microintervention are invited to complete a semi-structured virtual interview about their experiences to assess acceptability. CONCLUSION Findings from this study could provide initial evidence that compassion microinterventions show promise in addressing stigma-related stress reactivity among SMW/TNB people. CLINICALTRIALS govregistration:NCT05949060.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Helminen
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode, Island.
| | - Kriti Behari
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Marley Education Center, 352 Irving Ave, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States of America
| | - Jillian R Scheer
- Department of Psychology, College of Health Sciences, University of Rhode Island, 142 Flagg Road, Kingston, Rhode, Island
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Schildroth S, Claus Henn B, Vines AI, Geller RJ, Lovett SM, Coleman CM, Bethea TN, Botelho JC, Calafat AM, Milando C, Baird DD, Wegienka G, Wise LA. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), perceived stress, and depressive symptoms in a prospective cohort study of black women. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172445. [PMID: 38642767 PMCID: PMC11109747 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals with neurotoxic properties. PFAS have been associated with depressive symptoms among women in some studies, but little research has evaluated the effects of PFAS mixtures. Further, no study has investigated interactions of PFAS-depression associations by perceived stress, which has been shown to modify the effects of PFAS on other health outcomes. OBJECTIVE In a prospective cohort study of reproductive-aged Black women, we investigated associations between PFAS and depressive symptoms and the extent to which perceived stress modified these associations. METHODS We analyzed data from 1499 participants (23-35 years) in the Study of Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids. We quantified concentrations of nine PFAS in baseline plasma samples using online solid-phase extraction-liquid chromatography-isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry. Participants reported perceived stress via the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4; range = 0-16) at baseline and depressive symptoms via the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD; range = 0-44) at the 20-month follow-up visit. We used Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression to estimate associations between PFAS concentrations, individually and as a mixture, and depressive symptoms, and to assess effect modification by PSS-4 scores, adjusting for confounders. RESULTS Baseline perfluorodecanoic acid concentrations were associated with greater depressive symptoms at the 20-month follow-up, but associations for other PFAS were null. The PFAS were not associated with depressive symptoms when evaluated as a mixture. The association between the 90th percentile (vs. 50th percentile) of the PFAS mixture with CES-D scores was null at the 10th (β = 0.03; 95 % CrI = 0.20, 0.25), 50th (β = 0.02; 95 % CrI = -0.16, 0.19), and 90th (β = 0.01; 95 % CrI = 0.18, 0.20) percentiles of PSS-4 scores, suggesting perceived stress did not modify the PFAS mixture. CONCLUSION In this prospective cohort study, PFAS concentrations-assessed individually or as a mixture-were not appreciably associated with depressive symptoms, and there was no evidence of effect modification by perceived stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Schildroth
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anissa I Vines
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ruth J Geller
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sharonda M Lovett
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chad M Coleman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Traci N Bethea
- Office of Minority Health & Health Disparities Research, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Julianne Cook Botelho
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chad Milando
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Donna D Baird
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Elbasheir A, Fulton TM, Choucair KC, Lathan EC, Spivey BN, Guelfo A, Carter SE, Powers A, Fani N. Moral injury, race-related stress and post-traumatic stress disorder in a trauma-exposed Black population. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:326-332. [PMID: 38574596 PMCID: PMC11140589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Race-related stress (RRS) is an unrecognized source of moral injury (MI)-or the emotional and/or spiritual suffering that may emerge after exposure to events that violate deeply held beliefs. Additionally, MI has not been explored as a mechanism of risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in trauma-exposed civilians. We examined relations among exposure to potentially morally injurious events (moral injury exposure, MIE), related distress (moral injury distress, MID), and RRS in Black Americans. Potential indirect associations between RRS and PTSD symptoms via MID were also examined. METHODS Black Americans (n = 228; 90.4% female; Mage = 31.6 years. SDage = 12.8 years) recruited from an ongoing study of trauma completed measures assessing civilian MIE and MID, RRS, and PTSD. Bivariate correlations were conducted with MIE and MID, and mediation analysis with MID, to examine the role of MI in the relationship between RRS and PTSD symptom severity. RESULTS MIE was significantly correlated with cultural (r = 0.27), individual (r = 0.29), and institutional (r = 0.25) RRS; MID also correlated with cultural (r = 0.31), individual (r = 0.31), and institutional (r = 0.26) RRS (ps < 0.001). We found an indirect effect of RRS on PTSD symptoms via MID (β = 0.10, p < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS All types of RRS were associated with facets of MI, which mediated the relationship between RRS and current PTSD symptoms. MI may be a potential mechanism through which RRS increases the risk for PTSD in Black individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Elbasheir
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA; Neuroscience PhD Program, Emory University, USA
| | - Travis M Fulton
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA; Molecular and Systems Pharmacology PhD Program, Emory University, USA
| | - Khaled C Choucair
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | - Emma C Lathan
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | | | - Alfonsina Guelfo
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | | | - Abigail Powers
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | - Negar Fani
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA.
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Hackett RA, Hunter MS, Jackson SE. The relationship between gender discrimination and wellbeing in middle-aged and older women. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299381. [PMID: 38507365 PMCID: PMC10954130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence suggests that perceived gender discrimination negatively impacts mental wellbeing in young women. PURPOSE This study explored whether a similar relationship exists in middle-aged and older women. METHODS A total of 3081 women (aged ≥52 years) from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing provided data on perceived gender discrimination in 2010/11. Depressive symptoms, loneliness, quality of life and life satisfaction were assessed in 2010/11 and in 2016/17. RESULTS Perceived gender discrimination was reported by 282 (9.2%) participants. Cross-sectionally, women who perceived gender discrimination reported more depressive symptoms (β = 0.34, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.57) and had higher loneliness scores (β = 0.14, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.20) than women who did not perceive gender discrimination. They also reported significantly lower quality of life (β = -2.50, 95% CI -3.49 to -1.51) and life satisfaction (β = -1.07, 95% CI -1.81 to -0.33). Prospectively, perceived gender discrimination was associated with greater loneliness scores (β = 0.08, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.14), as well as lower ratings of quality of life (β = -0.98, 95% CI -0.09 to -1.86), and life satisfaction (β = -1.04, 95% CI -0.34 to -1.74), independent of baseline values. CONCLUSIONS Middle-aged and older women who perceive gender discrimination report poorer mental wellbeing than those who do not perceive discrimination. Further, this type of discrimination may be predictive of declining mental wellbeing over time. These findings highlight the need for interventions to target gender-based discrimination to improve the wellbeing of women at mid- and older age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth A. Hackett
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Health Psychology Section, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Myra S. Hunter
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Health Psychology Section, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah E. Jackson
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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8
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Goreis A, Nater UM, Mewes R. Psychological Consequences of Chronic Ethnic Discrimination in Male Turkish Immigrants Living in Austria: A 30-Day Ambulatory Assessment Study. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:111-121. [PMID: 37857265 PMCID: PMC10831213 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaad061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic ethnic discrimination may be associated with negative psychological consequences in ethnic minority groups. However, little is known about the impact of acute discriminatory events on people who experience chronic ethnic discrimination. PURPOSE We examined the impact of chronic and acute ethnic discrimination on the daily lives of Turkish immigrants in Austria, a population often overlooked in discrimination research. METHODS Ninety male Turkish immigrants living in Austria (60 experiencing chronic and 30 infrequent ethnic discrimination) reported discriminatory events in real time for 30 days. Additionally, subjective stress, reactivity to daily hassles, affect, and maladaptive coping were assessed daily. RESULTS Participants experiencing chronic ethnic discrimination indicated higher daily values for stress, negative affect, reactivity to daily hassles, and anticipation and avoidance coping. Negative psychological states increased for all participants on days when discriminatory events occurred, but participants with chronic ethnic discrimination showed significantly stronger increases in maladaptive coping and reactivity to daily hassles, with the latter effect persisting until the next day. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to demonstrate interaction effects of chronic and acute ethnic discrimination on psychological factors in daily life. The results may advance the understanding of the mechanisms that lead to health disparities in ethnic minority populations and may inform the development of targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Goreis
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University Research Platform “The Stress of Life – Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress”, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urs M Nater
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ricarda Mewes
- Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University Research Platform “The Stress of Life – Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress”, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Filetti C, Kane-Grade F, Gunnar M. The Development of Stress Reactivity and Regulation in Children and Adolescents. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:395-419. [PMID: 37559538 PMCID: PMC10845082 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230808120504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Adversity experienced in early life can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health. One pathway in which these effects occur is through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a key physiological stress-mediating system. In this review, we discuss the theoretical perspectives that guide stress reactivity and regulation research, the anatomy and physiology of the axis, developmental changes in the axis and its regulation, brain systems regulating stress, the role of genetic and epigenetics variation in axis development, sensitive periods in stress system calibration, the social regulation of stress (i.e., social buffering), and emerging research areas in the study of stress physiology and development. Understanding the development of stress reactivity and regulation is crucial for uncovering how early adverse experiences influence mental and physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Filetti
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Finola Kane-Grade
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Megan Gunnar
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
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10
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Kim Y, Beale AM, Rasmussen HF, Kazmierski KFM, Margolin G. Anti-Black violence, discrimination, and sleep difficulties amongst racially diverse Americans: The aftermath of the murder of George Floyd. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116410. [PMID: 38016308 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Following the murders of George Floyd and other Black Americans during the summer of 2020, there was unprecedented exposure to media-disseminated depictions of anti-Black violence. Little is known about the impact of this widespread form of vicarious racism that was pervasive during that historic time. OBJECTIVE The present study applies the concept of vicarious racism to study this secondary exposure to anti-Black violence. We investigated negative impacts of anti-Black violence (NIAV) and personal experiences with discrimination in association with sleep difficulties, a critical intermediary health process. METHODS Racially diverse Americans (N = 487) were recruited to participate in a cross-sectional study using an online survey given between December 11, 2020 and February 11, 2021. RESULTS Black participants endorsed greater NIAV than Asian, Latinx, and White participants. Moreover, Black, Asian, and Latinx participants reported greater direct discrimination than White participants. NIAV and direct discrimination were each associated with more sleep difficulties. Although associations between NIAV and sleep difficulties did not vary by race, race moderated the association between direct discrimination and sleep difficulties. In addition, direct discrimination moderated the association between NIAV and sleep difficulties in an unanticipated direction: the link between NIAV and sleep difficulties was weaker for those experiencing more direct discrimination. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that anti-Black violence and police brutality not only impact direct victims but have widespread vicarious impacts on racially diverse Americans, and highlight that vicarious anti-Black racism and discrimination are important issues of public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehsong Kim
- University of Southern California, 3620 South McClintock Ave, SGM 501, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA.
| | - Alexis M Beale
- University of Southern California, 3620 South McClintock Ave, SGM 501, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA.
| | - Hannah F Rasmussen
- University of Southern California, 3620 South McClintock Ave, SGM 501, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA.
| | - Kelly F M Kazmierski
- University of California, Irvine, 4201 Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Gayla Margolin
- University of Southern California, 3620 South McClintock Ave, SGM 501, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA.
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Chen S, Kertes D, Benner A, Kim SY. Short-term cortisol adaption to discrimination and Mexican-origin adolescents' mental and sleep health. Dev Psychopathol 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37791538 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579423001219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Discrimination experiences are a salient contributor to the health disparities facing Latina/x/o youth. The biopsychosocial model of minority health posits that discrimination influences health through wear and tear on the biological stress responses, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is a primary stress response system in the body. Emerging evidence suggests that discrimination alters the secretion of cortisol, the end product of the HPA axis, yet, whether the daily processes between discrimination and diurnal cortisol response influence mental and sleep health remains unanswered. This study integrated daily diary and post-diary survey data to examine whether daily diurnal cortisol responses to discrimination influence adolescents' mental (depressive symptoms, anxiety) and sleep (sleep quality, duration) health in a sample of Mexican-origin youth (N = 282; M age = 17.10; 55% female). Results showed that adolescents who experienced more discrimination across the four-day diary period exhibited steeper diurnal cortisol slopes and lower evening cortisol; however, such physiological responses tended to be associated with poorer adolescents' mental and sleep health. The current study underscores the potential adaptation cost associated with short-term cortisol adaptation in the face of discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanting Chen
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Darlene Kertes
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Aprile Benner
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Su Yeong Kim
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Bhavnani SK, Zhang W, Bao D, Raji M, Ajewole V, Hunter R, Kuo YF, Schmidt S, Pappadis MR, Smith E, Bokov A, Reistetter T, Visweswaran S, Downer B. Subtyping Social Determinants of Health in All of Us: Network Analysis and Visualization Approach. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.01.27.23285125. [PMID: 37636340 PMCID: PMC10459353 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.27.23285125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Social determinants of health (SDoH), such as financial resources and housing stability, account for between 30-55% of people's health outcomes. While many studies have identified strong associations among specific SDoH and health outcomes, most people experience multiple SDoH that impact their daily lives. Analysis of this complexity requires the integration of personal, clinical, social, and environmental information from a large cohort of individuals that have been traditionally underrepresented in research, which is only recently being made available through the All of Us research program. However, little is known about the range and response of SDoH in All of Us, and how they co-occur to form subtypes, which are critical for designing targeted interventions. Objective To address two research questions: (1) What is the range and response to survey questions related to SDoH in the All of Us dataset? (2) How do SDoH co-occur to form subtypes, and what are their risk for adverse health outcomes? Methods For Question-1, an expert panel analyzed the range of SDoH questions across the surveys with respect to the 5 domains in Healthy People 2030 (HP-30), and analyzed their responses across the full All of Us data (n=372,397, V6). For Question-2, we used the following steps: (1) due to the missingness across the surveys, selected all participants with valid and complete SDoH data, and used inverse probability weighting to adjust their imbalance in demographics compared to the full data; (2) an expert panel grouped the SDoH questions into SDoH factors for enabling a more consistent granularity; (3) used bipartite modularity maximization to identify SDoH biclusters, their significance, and their replicability; (4) measured the association of each bicluster to three outcomes (depression, delayed medical care, emergency room visits in the last year) using multiple data types (surveys, electronic health records, and zip codes mapped to Medicaid expansion states); and (5) the expert panel inferred the subtype labels, potential mechanisms that precipitate adverse health outcomes, and interventions to prevent them. Results For Question-1, we identified 110 SDoH questions across 4 surveys, which covered all 5 domains in HP-30. However, the results also revealed a large degree of missingness in survey responses (1.76%-84.56%), with later surveys having significantly fewer responses compared to earlier ones, and significant differences in race, ethnicity, and age of participants of those that completed the surveys with SDoH questions, compared to those in the full All of Us dataset. Furthermore, as the SDoH questions varied in granularity, they were categorized by an expert panel into 18 SDoH factors. For Question-2, the subtype analysis (n=12,913, d=18) identified 4 biclusters with significant biclusteredness (Q=0.13, random-Q=0.11, z=7.5, P<0.001), and significant replication (Real-RI=0.88, Random-RI=0.62, P<.001). Furthermore, there were statistically significant associations between specific subtypes and the outcomes, and with Medicaid expansion, each with meaningful interpretations and potential targeted interventions. For example, the subtype Socioeconomic Barriers included the SDoH factors not employed, food insecurity, housing insecurity, low income, low literacy, and low educational attainment, and had a significantly higher odds ratio (OR=4.2, CI=3.5-5.1, P-corr<.001) for depression, when compared to the subtype Sociocultural Barriers. Individuals that match this subtype profile could be screened early for depression and referred to social services for addressing combinations of SDoH such as housing insecurity and low income. Finally, the identified subtypes spanned one or more HP-30 domains revealing the difference between the current knowledge-based SDoH domains, and the data-driven subtypes. Conclusions The results revealed that the SDoH subtypes not only had statistically significant clustering and replicability, but also had significant associations with critical adverse health outcomes, which had translational implications for designing targeted SDoH interventions, decision-support systems to alert clinicians of potential risks, and for public policies. Furthermore, these SDoH subtypes spanned multiple SDoH domains defined by HP-30 revealing the complexity of SDoH in the real-world, and aligning with influential SDoH conceptual models such as by Dahlgren-Whitehead. However, the high-degree of missingness warrants repeating the analysis as the data becomes more complete. Consequently we designed our machine learning code to be generalizable and scalable, and made it available on the All of Us workbench, which can be used to periodically rerun the analysis as the dataset grows for analyzing subtypes related to SDoH, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh K. Bhavnani
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Weibin Zhang
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Daniel Bao
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Mukaila Raji
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Veronica Ajewole
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, TX, USA
| | - Rodney Hunter
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, TX, USA
| | - Yong-Fang Kuo
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Susanne Schmidt
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Monique R. Pappadis
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Elise Smith
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Alex Bokov
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Timothy Reistetter
- School of Health Professions, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Shyam Visweswaran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Intelligent Systems Program, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Brian Downer
- School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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13
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Zilioli S, Jiang Y, Byrd D, Joseph N. Lifetime discrimination, habitual and daily everyday discrimination, and diurnal cortisol among older African Americans adults. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 152:106089. [PMID: 36965461 PMCID: PMC10164111 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
Experiences of discrimination can be major life events or daily chronic hassles that occur in various social contexts (e.g., housing, education, employment) and have been found to predict adverse health outcomes, including dysregulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. Previous work on daily cortisol dynamics has generally revealed an association between discrimination and flatter cortisol slopes, particularly among racial minorities. However, most of the existing studies have focused on youth and young adults, with little work among older adults. The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between three measures of discrimination (lifetime discrimination, habitual everyday discrimination, and daily everyday discrimination) and diurnal cortisol secretion in a sample of 203 older African Americans. Study results indicated that individuals reporting higher levels of lifetime discrimination experienced morning hypocortisolism and flatter diurnal cortisol slopes. Exploratory analyses also showed that prior daily everyday discrimination was significantly associated with blunted cortisol awakening response (CAR) the next day. Our findings underline the role of discrimination in modulating daily cortisol dynamics among older African American adults and advance knowledge on how social stressors influence healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Zilioli
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, United States; Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University, United States.
| | - Yanping Jiang
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, United States; Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, United States
| | - DeAnnah Byrd
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovative, Arizona State University, United States; Center of Innovative, Healthy, and Resilient Aging, Arizona State University, United States
| | - Nataria Joseph
- Department of Psychology, Pepperdine University, United States
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14
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Deer LK, Su C, Thwaites NA, Davis EP, Doom JR. A framework for testing pathways from prenatal stress-responsive hormones to cardiovascular disease risk. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1111474. [PMID: 37223037 PMCID: PMC10200937 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1111474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death globally, with the prevalence projected to keep rising. Risk factors for adult CVD emerge at least as early as the prenatal period. Alterations in stress-responsive hormones in the prenatal period are hypothesized to contribute to CVD in adulthood, but little is known about relations between prenatal stress-responsive hormones and early precursors of CVD, such as cardiometabolic risk and health behaviors. The current review presents a theoretical model of the relation between prenatal stress-responsive hormones and adult CVD through cardiometabolic risk markers (e.g., rapid catch-up growth, high BMI/adiposity, high blood pressure, and altered blood glucose, lipids, and metabolic hormones) and health behaviors (e.g., substance use, poor sleep, poor diet and eating behaviors, and low physical activity levels). Emerging evidence in human and non-human animal literatures suggest that altered stress-responsive hormones during gestation predict higher cardiometabolic risk and poorer health behaviors in offspring. This review additionally highlights limitations of the current literature (e.g., lack of racial/ethnic diversity, lack of examination of sex differences), and discusses future directions for this promising area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- LillyBelle K. Deer
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Chen Su
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | | | - Elysia Poggi Davis
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Jenalee R. Doom
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
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15
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Selvarajah S, Corona Maioli S, Deivanayagam TA, de Morais Sato P, Devakumar D, Kim SS, Wells JC, Yoseph M, Abubakar I, Paradies Y. Racism, xenophobia, and discrimination: mapping pathways to health outcomes. Lancet 2022; 400:2109-2124. [PMID: 36502849 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)02484-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite being globally pervasive, racism, xenophobia, and discrimination are not universally recognised determinants of health. We challenge widespread beliefs related to the inevitability of increased mortality and morbidity associated with particular ethnicities and minoritised groups. In refuting that racial categories have a genetic basis and acknowledging that socioeconomic factors offer incomplete explanations in understanding these health disparities, we examine the pathways by which discrimination based on caste, ethnicity, Indigeneity, migratory status, race, religion, and skin colour affect health. Discrimination based on these categories, although having many unique historical and cultural contexts, operates in the same way, with overlapping pathways and health effects. We synthesise how such discrimination affects health systems, spatial determination, and communities, and how these processes manifest at the individual level, across the life course, and intergenerationally. We explore how individuals respond to and internalise these complex mechanisms psychologically, behaviourally, and physiologically. The evidence shows that racism, xenophobia, and discrimination affect a range of health outcomes across all ages around the world, and remain embedded within the universal challenges we face, from COVID-19 to the climate emergency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujitha Selvarajah
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK; St George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | | | - Thilagawathi Abi Deivanayagam
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK; Lancaster Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | | | - Delan Devakumar
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Seung-Sup Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jonathan C Wells
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Marcella Yoseph
- Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Ibrahim Abubakar
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Yin Paradies
- Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
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16
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Hastings PD, Guyer AE, Parra LA. Conceptualizing the Influence of Social and Structural Determinants of Neurobiology and Mental Health: Why and How Biological Psychiatry Can Do Better at Addressing the Consequences of Inequity. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2022; 7:1215-1224. [PMID: 35718087 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatry and allied disciplines have recognized the potency of structural and social determinants of mental health, yet there has been scant attention given to the roles of neurobiology in the links between structural and social determinants and mental health. In this article, we make the case for why greater attention must be given to structural and social determinants of biological psychiatry by researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers. After defining these terms and theoretical frameworks for considering their relevance in biological psychiatry, we review empirical research with marginalized and minoritized racial, ethnic, gender, sexual, and economic communities that reveals the ways in which structural and social determinants affect neurobiological functioning with implications for mental health. We give particular emphasis to developmental science and developmentally informed research, because structural and social determinants influence neurobiological adaptation and maturation across the lifespan. We conclude with recommendations for advancing research, practice, and policy that connect biological psychiatry with structural and social determinants of health. Foremost among these is diversifying the ranks of biological psychiatry, from classrooms through laboratories, hospitals, and community health centers. Transforming and advancing the understanding of the structural and social determinants of neurobiology and mental health is most likely to come through transforming the discipline itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D Hastings
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, California; Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, California.
| | - Amanda E Guyer
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, California; Department of Human Ecology, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Luis A Parra
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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17
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Volpert-Esmond HI, Landor AM, Bartholow BD. Immediate and delayed effects of everyday racial discrimination on mental health among Black college students: A mixed-methods approach. GROUP PROCESSES & INTERGROUP RELATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/13684302221131029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Experiences of racial discrimination significantly contribute to both mental and physical health outcomes. In this mixed-methods study, we examine both the immediate and delayed effect of discrimination experienced in daily life. Black students at a predominantly White university reported instances of racial discrimination, affect, anxiety, and depression several times per day over 4 weeks ( N = 114); this was followed by qualitative focus groups ( N = 25). Reporting an instance of discrimination corresponded with an acute decline in psychological wellbeing (higher negative affect, anxiety, and depression), consistent with previous work. However, this effect did not carry forward to later assessments during the same day or the following day as expected. Instead, positive affect temporarily increased in the hours following experiences of discrimination. Qualitative focus groups revealed social support, emotional reflection and processing, and feelings of taking action as important factors contributing to this bump in positive affect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antoinette M. Landor
- Department of Human Development and Family sciences, University of Missouri, USA
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18
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Cénat JM, Hajizadeh S, Dalexis RD, Ndengeyingoma A, Guerrier M, Kogan C. Prevalence and Effects of Daily and Major Experiences of Racial Discrimination and Microaggressions among Black Individuals in Canada. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP16750-NP16778. [PMID: 34120505 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211023493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence and correlates of different forms of racial discrimination among Black Canadians are unknown. This article aims to examine the prevalence of different forms of racial discrimination (daily, major and microaggressions) and their association with self-esteem and satisfaction with life among Black Canadians. A convenience sample of 845 Black Canadians aged 15-40 was recruited. We assessed frequencies of everyday and major racial discrimination, and racial microaggressions against Black Canadians and their association with self-esteem and satisfaction with life, controlling for gender, age, job status, education, and matrimonial status. At least 4 out of 10 participants declared having being victims of everyday racial discrimination at least once per week. Between 46.3% and 64.2% of participants declared having been victims of major racial discrimination in various situations including education, job hiring, job dismissal, health services, housing, bank and loans, and police encounters. Significant gender differences were observed for everyday and major racial discrimination with higher frequencies among female participants. A total of 50.2% to 93.8% of participants declared having been victims of at least one episode of racial microaggressions. Results showed a significant negative association between racial discrimination and satisfaction with life (b = -0.26, p = .003), and self-esteem (b = -0.23, p = .009). This study highlights the need to stop colorblind policies in different sectors in Canada, and for a public commitment to combat racism at the municipal, provincial and federal levels. Implications are discussed for prevention, research and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saba Hajizadeh
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rose Darly Dalexis
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Cary Kogan
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Psychosocial Stress and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Stress Reactivity: Variations by Race and Socioeconomic Status Among Adults at Risk of Diabetes. Psychosom Med 2022; 84:813-821. [PMID: 35980779 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although stress is posited to play a key role in health disparities, the extent to which commonly used self-report psychosocial stress measures are related to neurobiological stress processes, especially across diverse populations, is unresolved. This study examined how two measures of psychosocial stress, perceived stress and domain-specific stress, covary with the acute neurobiological stress response. METHODS The Richmond Stress and Sugar Study includes a racially and socioeconomically diverse cohort of adults at risk for type 2 diabetes ( n = 125; mean age = 57 years, 48% Black, and 61% high neighborhood socioeconomic status [SES]). Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis reactivity was assessed by salivary cortisol response to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), a laboratory stressor. RESULTS Higher perceived stress was associated with a lower cortisol response to the TSST (-7.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -13.1% to -1.5%) but was not associated with cortisol recovery after the TSST (3%; 95% CI = -0.6% to 6.8%). In contrast, domain-specific stress was not associated with cortisol response (-2.1%; 95% CI = -20.7% to 20.9%) but was inversely associated with cortisol recovery (3.7%; 95% CI = 0.6% to 7.0%). SES modified these associations: both perceived stress and domain-specific stress were associated with TSST cortisol response only among participants from high-SES neighborhoods. There was minimal evidence of effect modification by race. CONCLUSIONS Both self-report measures of psychosocial stress were associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis reactivity to an acute stressor. These associations varied by perceived versus domain-specific measurement scales and by neighborhood SES. Further efforts to refine stress measures and clarify biological linkages between social status and health are needed.
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20
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Thompson EC, Muhammad JN, Adimora AA, Chandran A, Cohen MH, Crockett KB, Goparaju L, Henderson E, Kempf MC, Konkle-Parker D, Kwait J, Mimiaga M, Ofotokun I, Rubin L, Sharma A, Teplin LA, Vance DE, Weiser SD, Weiss DJ, Wilson TE, Turan JM, Turan B. Internalized HIV-Related Stigma and Neurocognitive Functioning Among Women Living with HIV. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:336-342. [PMID: 36099481 PMCID: PMC9810353 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment persists despite highly effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). In this study we explore the role of internalized stigma, acceptance of negative societal characterizations, and perceptions about people living with HIV (PLWH) on neurocognitive functioning (executive function, learning, memory, attention/working memory, psychomotor speed, fluency, motor skills) in a national cohort of women living with HIV (WLWH) in the United States. We utilized observational data from a multicenter study of WLWH who are mostly African American living in low-resource settings. Neurocognitive function was measured using an eight-test battery. A multiple linear regression model was constructed to investigate the relationship between internalized stigma and overall neurocognitive functioning (mean of all neurocognitive domain standardized T-scores), adjusting for age, education, race, previous neuropsychological battery scores, illicit drug use, viral load, and years on ART. Our analysis revealed that internalized HIV-related stigma is significantly associated with worse performance on individual domain tests and overall neurocognitive performance (B = 0.27, t = 2.50, p = 0.01). This suggests HIV-related internalized stigma may be negatively associated with neurocognitive functioning for WLWH. This finding highlights a specific psychosocial factor associated with poor neurocognitive function that may be targeted to better promote the health of PLWH. Future research on the longitudinal relationship between these variables and the effects of other stigma dimensions on poor neurocognitive function would provide further insights into the pathways explaining the relationship between internalized stigma and neurocognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma C. Thompson
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Josh N. Muhammad
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Adoara A. Adimora
- School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Aruna Chandran
- School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mardge H. Cohen
- Chicago Women's Interagency HIV Study, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kaylee B. Crockett
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Lakshmi Goparaju
- School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Emmett Henderson
- School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mirjam-Colette Kempf
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Deborah Konkle-Parker
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Jennafer Kwait
- Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Matthew Mimiaga
- School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Igho Ofotokun
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Leah Rubin
- School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anjala Sharma
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Linda A. Teplin
- School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - David E. Vance
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sheri D. Weiser
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Deborah J. Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Tracey E. Wilson
- School of Public Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Janet M. Turan
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Bulent Turan
- Department of Psychology, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
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21
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Goreis A, Nater UM, Skoluda N, Mewes R. Psychobiological effects of chronic ethnic discrimination in Turkish immigrants: Stress responses to standardized face-to-face discrimination in the laboratory. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 142:105785. [PMID: 35523028 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ethnic discrimination negatively affects the health of ethnic minorities. The dysregulation of psychobiological stress systems, such as the autonomic nervous system (ANS) or the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, might be an intermediary in this association and chronicity of ethnic discrimination may matter. We studied stress responses to a standardized discriminatory event in Turkish immigrants living in Austria. BACKGROUND Seventy-two male Turkish immigrants were recruited; n = 35 had experienced high levels of ethnic discrimination (high), n = 37 infrequent ethnic discrimination (low). During a two-hour laboratory appointment, they underwent a previously validated 10-minute ethnic discrimination paradigm, i.e., a simulated physician's consultation with verbal and non-verbal discriminatory cues. Perceived stress, perceived discrimination, salivary cortisol, and alpha-amylase were assessed seven times, and ANS measures (heart rate, heart rate variability, and electrodermal activity) were measured continuously. In addition, hair cortisol concentrations were determined. RESULTS The ethnic discrimination paradigm elicited stress responses across all outcomes in both groups. Compared to the low group, the high group reported higher levels of perceived stress and discrimination, exhibited a less steep increase in cortisol in response to the paradigm, and showed higher hair cortisol concentrations. No group differences were found regarding ANS measures. CONCLUSIONS The combination of high subjective stress, flattened cortisol responses, and relatively high hair cortisol concentrations may indicate a dysregulation of the HPA axis in chronic ethnic discrimination. A better understanding of the psychobiological effects of chronic ethnic discrimination is crucial given that alterations in stress response systems may, over time, lead to illness and ultimately to substantial health inequities in ethnic minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Goreis
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; University Research Platform "The Stress of Life - Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress", University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urs M Nater
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; University Research Platform "The Stress of Life - Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress", University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nadine Skoluda
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; University Research Platform "The Stress of Life - Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress", University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ricarda Mewes
- Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; University Research Platform "The Stress of Life - Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress", University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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22
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Keating L, Kaur A, Mendieta M, Gleason C, Basello G, Roth A, Brondolo E. Racial discrimination and core executive functions. Stress Health 2022; 38:615-621. [PMID: 34799970 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Researchers have theorized that exposure to racial discrimination may impair executive functioning. The limited existing data broadly support this notion and suggest that discrimination may exert acute and persistent effects on executive functioning, potentially because of the cognitive demands associated with responding to discrimination. However, it is unclear if discrimination is differentially associated with different core executive functions. Further, the effects may vary depending on the timing of exposure, as recent or acute exposure to discrimination may operate on executive functioning through different mechanisms than exposure across the lifetime. The current study evaluates the relations of both recent and lifetime exposure to racial discrimination to three core executive functions (i.e., cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control and working memory) using a racially and ethnically diverse sample (n = 319). In fully adjusted models, recent discrimination was negatively associated with cognitive flexibility and working memory but not with inhibitory control. These data are consistent with the broader literature on acute stress effects on core executive functions and may have implications for understanding the effects of discrimination on health. Further research is warranted to understand the course and mechanisms of effects of lifetime and recent discrimination on core executive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Keating
- Department of Psychology, St. John's University, Jamaica, New York, USA
| | - Amandeep Kaur
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Miguel Mendieta
- Department of Psychology, St. John's University, Jamaica, New York, USA
| | - Colleen Gleason
- Department of Psychology, St. John's University, Jamaica, New York, USA
| | - Gina Basello
- Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Jamaica, New York, USA
| | - Alan Roth
- Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Jamaica, New York, USA
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Miller HN, Perrin N, Thorpe RJ, Evans MK, Zonderman AB, Allen J. The Association Between Perceived Discrimination and BMI Trajectory: A Prospective Study of African American and White Adults. FAMILY & COMMUNITY HEALTH 2022; 45:206-213. [PMID: 35385415 PMCID: PMC9156529 DOI: 10.1097/fch.0000000000000326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that socioenvironmental stressors, such as discrimination, may serve as determinants of the ongoing obesity epidemic and persisting disparities in obesity prevalence. The objectives of these analyses were to examine whether perceived discrimination was associated with body mass index (BMI) trajectory and whether this relationship differed by race or sex. Data for these analyses came from the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span study, a prospective cohort study in Baltimore City. Mixed-effects linear regression was used in a sample of 1962 African American and white adults to test our hypotheses. We found that race was an effect modifier in the relationship between perceived discrimination and BMI trajectory (B = 0.063, P = .014). Specifically, higher baseline perceived discrimination was associated with positive BMI trajectory in African American adults (B = 0.031, P = .033) but not in white adults (B = -0.032 P = .128). In this longitudinal study of African American and white adults, the relationship between perceived discrimination and BMI trajectory differed by race. Future research should be conducted in diverse samples to understand the risk socioenvironmental stressors pose on the development and progression of overweight and obesity, in addition to how these differ in subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailey N Miller
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina (Dr Miller); School of Nursing (Drs Perrin and Allen) and Bloomberg School of Public Health (Dr Thorpe), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland; and Laboratory of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland (Drs Evans and Zonderman)
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Fiselier A, Narendran G, Raiche J, Tanguay R, Kapoor A, Jablonski T, Kovalchuk O. From discrimination and dis-ease to aging and disease-an epigenetic connection. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2022; 12:100282. [PMID: 36776425 PMCID: PMC9903812 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fiselier
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gaya Narendran
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Joe Raiche
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert Tanguay
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- The Newly Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anmol Kapoor
- Advanced Cardiology Consultants and Diagnostics and the DIL Walk Foundation, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ted Jablonski
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Corresponding author
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Pasco MC, Flores-González N, Atkin AL. A Retrospective Analysis of Racial Discrimination Experiences for Latinx Adolescents and Young Adults. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2022; 32:636-649. [PMID: 35437826 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Encounters with racial discrimination occur from various sources and contexts for Latinx youth. From a historical context, Latinx have long experienced anti-immigrant sentiment and have been treated as perpetual foreigners. This study centers the voices of U.S.-born Latinx youth and explores their experiences of discrimination in 83 in-depth interviews (15-25 years, x~age = 21.27, SD = 2.10; 58% Female). Through retrospective accounts, we identified four themes across narratives: assumed (illegal) immigrant, assumed unintelligent, assumed criminal, assumed inferior. Overt and subtle discrimination occurred across contexts and from multiple sources including peers, store employees, and strangers. The findings have implications for understanding Latinx youth make meaning of past experiences of discrimination and how those experiences are interpreted later in life.
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Hatzenbuehler ML, Weissman DG, McKetta S, Lattanner MR, Ford JV, Barch DM, McLaughlin KA. Smaller Hippocampal Volume Among Black and Latinx Youth Living in High-Stigma Contexts. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 61:809-819. [PMID: 34481917 PMCID: PMC8888779 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether structural and individual forms of stigma are associated with neurodevelopment in children. METHOD Stigma related to gender, race, and Latinx ethnicity was measured at the structural level using objective state-level indicators of social policies and prejudicial attitudes and at the individual level using self-reports of perceived discrimination. Respective associations of stigma with hippocampal volume and amygdala reactivity to threat were examined using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (N = 11,534, mean age 9.9 years), the first multisite neuroimaging study that provided substantial variability in sociopolitical contexts and that included individual-level measures of stigma among youth. RESULTS In a preregistered analysis, Black (B = -58.26, p = .023) and Latinx (B = -40.10, p = .044) youths in higher (vs lower) structural stigma contexts were found to have smaller hippocampal volume, controlling for total intracranial volume, demographics, and family socioeconomic status. This association was also observed at a trend-level among girls (p = .082). The magnitude of the difference in hippocampal volume between high and low structural stigma states was equivalent to the predicted impact of a $20,000 difference in annual family income in this sample. As hypothesized, structural stigma was not associated with hippocampal volume in nonstigmatized youths, providing evidence of specificity. Perceived discrimination was unrelated to hippocampal volume in stigmatized groups. No associations between perceived discrimination or structural stigma and amygdala reactivity to threat were observed. CONCLUSION This study provides novel evidence that an objective measure of structural stigma may be more strongly related to hippocampal volume than subjective perceptions of stigma, suggesting that contextual approaches to stigma could yield new insights into neurodevelopment among marginalized youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah McKetta
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York
| | | | - Jessie V Ford
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York
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Rhudy JL, Huber FA, Toledo TA, Kell PA, Street EN, Shadlow JO. Psychosocial and cardiometabolic predictors of chronic pain onset in Native Americans: serial mediation analyses of 2-year prospective data from the Oklahoma Study of Native American Pain Risk. Pain 2022; 163:e654-e674. [PMID: 34433767 PMCID: PMC8866534 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Chronic pain results in considerable suffering, as well as significant economic and societal costs. Previous evidence suggests that Native Americans (NAs) have higher rates of chronic pain than other U.S. racial or ethnic groups, but the mechanisms contributing to this pain disparity are poorly understood. The Oklahoma Study of Native American Pain Risk was developed to address this issue and recruited healthy, pain-free NAs and non-Hispanic Whites. Cross-sectional analyses identified several measures of adversity (eg, trauma and discrimination), cognitive-affective factors (perceived stress and pain-related anxiety/catastrophizing), and cardiometabolic factors (eg, body mass index, blood pressure, and heart rate variability) that were associated with pronociceptive processes (eg, central sensitization, descending inhibition, and hyperalgesia). Every 6-months after enrollment, eligible participants (N = 277) were recontacted and assessed for the onset of chronic pain. This study examines predictors of chronic pain onset in the 222 participants (80%) who responded over the first 2 years. The results show that NAs developed chronic pain at a higher rate than non-Hispanic Whites (OR = 2.902, P < 0.05), even after controlling for age, sex, income, and education. Moreover, serial mediation models identified several potential pathways to chronic pain onset within the NA group. These paths included perceived discrimination, psychological stress, pain-related anxiety, a composite measure of cardiometabolic risk, and impaired descending inhibition of spinal nociception (assessed from conditioned pain modulation of the nociceptive flexion reflex). These results provide the first prospective evidence for a pain disparity in NAs that seems to be promoted by psychosocial, cardiometabolic, and pronociceptive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L. Rhudy
- The University of Tulsa, Department of Psychology, Tulsa, OK
| | | | - Tyler A. Toledo
- The University of Tulsa, Department of Psychology, Tulsa, OK
| | - Parker A. Kell
- The University of Tulsa, Department of Psychology, Tulsa, OK
| | - Erin N. Street
- The University of Tulsa, Department of Psychology, Tulsa, OK
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Parra LA, Helm JL, Hastings PD. Adrenocortical responses of emerging adults in California in the two months following the Pulse night club massacre: Evidence for distal stress responses. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2022; 10:100129. [PMID: 35755199 PMCID: PMC9216603 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2022.100129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined adrenocortical responses in the days following the Pulse nightclub massacre on June 12, 2016, among emerging adults in Northern California (N = 202; M = 23.18 years, SD = 2.56; 25% LGBQ-Latinx, 25% LGBQ-White, 25% Straight-Latinx, and 25% Straight-White) between June 13-August 12, 2016. As predicted, participants tested more proximally to the massacre had higher waking cortisol (intercepts) and flatter diurnal cortisol output (slopes), indicative of time-dependent adrenocortical arousal across the day. The effect of days post-massacre on waking cortisol was moderated by daily distress, with days since the Pulse massacre predicting waking cortisol significant only for participants reporting lower distress; participants who reported feeling higher daily distress had elevated waking cortisol across the testing period. These findings were independent of weekly personal stressors, and consistent across participants' demographic and identity characteristics. The violent attack at the Pulse nightclub was connected to increased waking cortisol and diurnal cortisol production for several days after the massacre, in a distal population exposed to the massacre vicariously, and especially for individuals not experiencing other, personal stressors. Heightened physiological responses to violent crimes support policy efforts to protect vulnerable communities, including violence prevention, gun control, and community-based trauma response services for those directly and indirectly affected by gun violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A. Parra
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in Saint Louis, USA
| | | | - Paul D. Hastings
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, USA
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, USA
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Lawrence JA, Kawachi I, White K, Bassett MT, Williams DR. Associations between multiple indicators of discrimination and allostatic load among middle-aged adults. Soc Sci Med 2022; 298:114866. [PMID: 35278977 PMCID: PMC9214633 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to examine associations between multiple measures of discrimination (i.e., everyday, lifetime, and appraised burden) and components of allostatic load (AL). We drew on pooled cross-sectional data from the Biomarker Project of the Midlife in the United States study (n = 2118). Ages ranged from 25 to 84 years and included mostly Black (n = 389) and white (n = 1598) adults. Quasi-Poisson models were fit to estimate prevalence ratios for each discrimination measure and high-risk quartiles across seven physiological systems (i.e., sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system; HPA axis; inflammation; cardiovascular; metabolic glucose; and metabolic lipids) and overall AL scores. In fully adjusted models, everyday discrimination was associated with elevated lipids (aPR: 1.07; 95% CI 1.01, 1.13). Lifetime experiences of discrimination were associated with lower sympathetic nervous system (aPR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.69, 0.98) and greater cardiovascular risk scores (aPR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.34) among those reporting three or more experiences, as well as increased inflammation (aPR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.25; aPR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.43), metabolic glucose (aPR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.19, 1.54; aPR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.24, 1.68), and metabolic lipids (aPR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.24; aPR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.43) scores for those reporting one to two and three or more experiences. Appraised burden yielded nuanced associations with metabolic glucose and parasympathetic nervous system scores. Everyday and lifetime measures were also associated with higher overall AL, though burden of discrimination was only associated with AL among those reporting "a little" burden. While AL summary scores provide insight into the cumulative impacts of discrimination on health, there appear to be distinct physiologic pathways through which varying forms of discrimination contribute to AL and, ultimately, to poorer health. These unique pathways may be useful in identifying potential points of intervention to mitigate the impacts of discrimination on health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jourdyn A Lawrence
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Population Health Sciences, Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Cambridge, MA, USA; François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB) Center for Health and Human Rights, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ichiro Kawachi
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kellee White
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Mary T Bassett
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB) Center for Health and Human Rights, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David R Williams
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of African and African American Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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30
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Martínez AD, Mercado E, Barbieri M, Kim SY, Granger DA. The Importance of Biobehavioral Research to Examine the Physiological Effects of Racial and Ethnic Discrimination in the Latinx Population. Front Public Health 2022; 9:762735. [PMID: 35083188 PMCID: PMC8784784 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.762735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of research is documenting how racial and ethnic populations embody social inequalities throughout the life course. Some scholars recommend the integration of biospecimens representing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, neurological and endocrinological processes, and inflammation to capture the embodiment of inequality. However, in comparison to other racial and ethnic groups, there has been little research examining how Hispanic/Latinx persons embody racial and ethnic discrimination, much less resulting from institutional and structural racism. We provide a rationale for expanding biobehavioral research examining the physiological consequences of racism among Latinx persons. We identify gaps and make recommendations for a future research agenda in which biobehavioral research can expand knowledge about chronic disease inequities among Latinx populations and inform behavioral and institutional interventions. We end by cautioning readers to approach the recommendations in this article as a call to expand the embodiment of racism research to include the diverse Latinx population as the United States addresses racial inequity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Airín D. Martínez
- Department of Health Promotion and Policy, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Evelyn Mercado
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Marielena Barbieri
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Su Yeong Kim
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas-Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Douglas A. Granger
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Salivary Bioscience Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- The Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, School of Nursing, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Saliva Bioscience Laboratory, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
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31
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Levy ME, Waters A, Sen S, Castel AD, Plankey M, Molock S, Asch F, Goparaju L, Kassaye S. Psychosocial stress and neuroendocrine biomarker concentrations among women living with or without HIV. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261746. [PMID: 34941922 PMCID: PMC8699620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Women living with HIV (WLWH) experience psychosocial stress related to social-structural vulnerabilities. To investigate neuroendocrine pathways linking stress and increased cardiovascular disease risk among WLWH, we evaluated associations between psychosocial stress (i.e., perceived stress, posttraumatic stress, and experiences of race- and gender-based harassment) and a composite neuroendocrine biomarker index among WLWH and women without HIV. METHODS In 2019-2020, Women's Interagency HIV Study participants in Washington, DC completed a questionnaire and provided blood and 12-hour overnight urine samples for testing of serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and urinary free cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Psychosocial stress was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale, PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version, and Racialized Sexual Harassment Scale. Latent profile analysis was used to classify participants into low (38%), moderate (44%), and high (18%) stress groups. Composite biomarker index scores between 0-4 were assigned based on participants' number of neuroendocrine biomarkers in high-risk quartiles (≥75th percentile for cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine and ≤25th percentile for DHEA-S). We evaluated associations between latent profile and composite biomarker index values using multivariable linear regression, adjusting for socio-demographic, behavioral, metabolic, and HIV-related factors. RESULTS Among 90 women, 62% were WLWH, 53% were non-Hispanic Black, and median age was 55 years. In full multivariable models, there was no statistically significant association between psychosocial stress and composite biomarker index values among all women independent of HIV status. High (vs. low) psychosocial stress was positively associated with higher mean composite biomarker index values among all monoracial Black women (adjusted β = 1.32; 95% CI: 0.20-2.43), Black WLWH (adjusted β = 1.93; 95% CI: 0.02-3.83) and Black HIV-negative women (adjusted β = 2.54; 95% CI: 0.41-4.67). CONCLUSIONS Despite a null association in the overall sample, greater psychosocial stress was positively associated with higher neuroendocrine biomarker concentrations among Black women, highlighting a plausible mechanism by which psychosocial stress could contribute to cardiovascular disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E. Levy
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Westat, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ansley Waters
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Office of Epidemiology, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Sabyasachi Sen
- Division of Endocrinology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Amanda D. Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Michael Plankey
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Sherry Molock
- Department of Psychology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Federico Asch
- Cardiovascular Core Laboratories and Cardiac Imaging Research, MedStar Health Research Institute, MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Lakshmi Goparaju
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Seble Kassaye
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Goreis A, Nater UM, Mewes R. Effects of chronic ethnic discrimination in the daily life of Turkish immigrants living in Austria: study protocol of a 30-day ambulatory assessment study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046697. [PMID: 34620655 PMCID: PMC8499268 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic ethnic discrimination is associated with negative mental and physical health outcomes in ethnic minority groups. It is assumed that suffering from repeated discriminatory events leads, over time, to psychological consequences such as higher perceived stress, higher negative affect and lower positive affect. Higher stress reactivity to non-discriminatory stressors, such as daily hassles, as well as anticipation and avoidance behaviour regarding discriminatory events, may further contribute to the overall burden for affected individuals. Studies investigating chronic ethnic discrimination and its psychological consequences in the daily lives of affected persons are lacking. Here, we present a study protocol to investigate the impact of chronic ethnic discrimination and acute discriminatory events in the daily lives of Turkish immigrants living in Austria, using an ambulatory assessment design. The feasibility of our study design was tested and confirmed in a pilot study (n=10). METHODS AND ANALYSIS Ninety male Turkish immigrants will complete daily questionnaires for 30 days. Participants will indicate stress, perceived discrimination, negative and positive affect, daily hassles, anticipation and avoidance behaviour, as well as rumination with regard to discriminatory events on a daily basis. Furthermore, they will use preprogrammed iPods to assess acute discriminatory events in real time. Our hypotheses will be tested using multilevel analyses. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the institutional review board of the University of Vienna (reference number 00358). Results will be presented at conferences and submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Goreis
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urs M Nater
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ricarda Mewes
- Outpatient Unit for Research, Teaching and Practice, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Miller HN, LaFave S, Marineau L, Stephens J, Thorpe RJ. The impact of discrimination on allostatic load in adults: An integrative review of literature. J Psychosom Res 2021; 146:110434. [PMID: 33810863 PMCID: PMC8172431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of the paper is to critically review the current state of the literature on the association between discrimination and allostatic load (AL) in adults and determine whether this association differs by sociodemographic characteristics. METHODS An extensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase to identify studies that investigated the association between discrimination and AL. The search was limited to the English language, articles that were peer-reviewed and articles that were published within the last 10 years. RESULTS A total of 11 studies met the eligibility criteria for this review, 8 of which were cross-sectional and 3 of which were longitudinal. There was heterogeneity in the type of discrimination measured, the composition of AL summary score, and the analytic approach utilized to examine the relationship of interest. Nine studies found a significant, positive association between discrimination and AL. The types of discrimination found to be positively associated with AL included lifetime discrimination, childhood racial discrimination, everyday discrimination, and everyday weight discrimination. One study found that this association differed by educational attainment. CONCLUSION There is evidence that discrimination is associated with AL. Longitudinal studies with diverse samples are needed to further explore this association and how it differs based on sociodemographic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailey N Miller
- Duke University School of Nursing, United States of America.
| | - Sarah LaFave
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, United States of America.
| | - Lea Marineau
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, United States of America.
| | - Janna Stephens
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, United States of America.
| | - Roland J Thorpe
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States of America.
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Diamond LM, Dehlin AJ, Alley J. Systemic inflammation as a driver of health disparities among sexually-diverse and gender-diverse individuals. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 129:105215. [PMID: 34090051 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Sexually-diverse individuals (those who seek sexual or romantic relationships with the same and/or multiple genders) and gender-diverse individuals (those whose gender identity and/or expression differs from their birth-assigned sex/gender) have disproportionately high physical health problems, but the underlying biological causes for these health disparities remain unclear. Building on the minority stress model linking social stigmatization to health outcomes, we argue that systemic inflammation (the body's primary response to both physical and psychological threats, indicated by inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and proinflammatory cytokines) is a primary biobehavioral pathway linking sexual and gender stigma to physical health outcomes. Expectations and experiences of social threat (i.e., rejection, shame, and isolation) are widespread and chronic among sexually-diverse and gender-diverse individuals, and social threats are particularly potent drivers of inflammation. We review research suggesting that framing "minority stress" in terms of social safety versus threat, and attending specifically to the inflammatory consequences of these experiences, can advance our understanding of the biobehavioral consequences of sexual and gender stigma and can promote the development of health promoting interventions for this population.
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Sladek MR, Castro SA, Doane LD. Ethnic-Racial discrimination experiences predict Latinx adolescents' physiological stress processes across college transition. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 128:105212. [PMID: 33933893 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Consistent with conceptual frameworks of ethnic-race-based stress responses, and empirical evidence for the detrimental effects of ethnic-racial discrimination, the current study hypothesized that experiencing more frequent ethnic-racial discrimination during adolescence would predict differences in physiological responses to psychosocial stress across the college transition. U.S. Latinx adolescents (N = 84; Mage = 18.56; SD = 0.35; 63.1% female; 85.7% Mexican descent) completed survey measures of ethnic-racial discrimination during their final year of high school and first college semester (~5 months later), as well as a standard psychosocial stressor task during their first college semester. Repeated blood pressure and salivary cortisol measures were recorded to assess cardiovascular and neuroendocrine activity at baseline and stress reactivity and recovery. Data were analyzed using multilevel growth models. Experiencing more frequent ethnic-racial discrimination in high school, specifically from adults, predicted higher baseline physiological stress levels and lower reactivity to psychosocial stress during the first college semester, evidenced by both blood pressure and cortisol measures. Experiencing ethnic-racial discrimination from peers in high school also predicted higher baseline blood pressure in college, but not stress reactivity indices. Results were consistent when controlling for concurrent reports of ethnic-racial discrimination, gender, parents' education level, body mass index, oral contraceptive use, time between longitudinal assessments, depressive symptoms, and general perceived stress. Experiencing frequent ethnic-racial discrimination during adolescence may lead to overburdening stress response systems, indexed by lower cardiovascular and neuroendocrine stress reactivity. Multiple physiological stress systems are sensitive to the consequences of ethnic-racial discrimination among Latinx adolescents transitioning to college.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Sladek
- Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, United States.
| | - Saul A Castro
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, United States.
| | - Leah D Doane
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, United States.
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Rajkumar RP. Harnessing the Neurobiology of Resilience to Protect the Mental Well-Being of Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2021; 12:621853. [PMID: 33815205 PMCID: PMC8012770 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.621853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers are at a high risk of psychological morbidity in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is significant variability in the impact of this crisis on individual healthcare workers, which can be best explained through an appreciation of the construct of resilience. Broadly speaking, resilience refers to the ability to successfully adapt to stressful or traumatic events, and thus plays a key role in determining mental health outcomes following exposure to such events. A proper understanding of resilience is vital in enabling a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach for protecting and promoting the mental well-being of healthcare workers. Research in the past decade has identified six areas that provide promising leads in understanding the biological basis of individual variations in resilience. These are: (1) the key role played by the monoamines noradrenaline and serotonin, (2) the centrality of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in influencing stress vulnerability and resilience, (3) the intimate links between the immune system and stress sensitivity, (4) the role of epigenetic modulation of gene expression in influencing the stress response, (5) the role played by certain neuropeptides as a natural “brake” mechanism in the face of stress, and (6) the neurobiological mechanisms by which environmental factors, such as exercise, diet, and social support, influence resilience to subsequent life events. Though much of this research is still in its early stages, it has already provided valuable information on which strategies – including dietary changes, lifestyle modification, environmental modification, psychosocial interventions, and even pharmacological treatments – may prove to be useful in fostering resilience in individuals and groups. This paper examines the above evidence more closely, with a specific focus on the challenges faced by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and provides suggestions regarding how it may be translated into real-world interventions, as well as how the more tentative hypotheses advanced in this field may be tested during this critical period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Philip Rajkumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry, India
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Racial discrimination and ethnic racial identity in adolescence as modulators of HPA axis activity. Dev Psychopathol 2021; 32:1669-1684. [PMID: 33427170 DOI: 10.1017/s095457942000111x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
We review evidence of racial discrimination as a critical and understudied form of adversity that has the potential to impact stress biology, particularly hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity. We highlight ethnic racial identity (ERI) as a positive regulatory influence on HPA axis activity, as indexed by levels of salivary cortisol. In past research by our group, Black individuals with high adolescent discrimination had low adult cortisol levels (hypocortisolism). Here, we present new analyses showing that ERI, measured prospectively from ages 12 through 32 in 112 Black and white individuals, is related to better-regulated cortisol levels in adulthood, particularly for Black participants. We also describe ongoing research that explores whether the promotion of ERI during adolescence can reduce ethnic-racial disparities in stress biology and in emotional health and academic outcomes.
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Lincoln KD, Nguyen AW. Biopsychosocial Risk Profiles among African American and Non-Hispanic White Adults: Findings from The Health and Retirement Study. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 77:e82-e88. [PMID: 33406248 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compared to Whites, African Americans have elevated risk for earlier onset fatal and non-fatal chronic conditions and accelerated aging. Despite these persistent race disparities, the causes remain poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to define a biopsychosocial risk typology that might explain accelerated aging in African Americans. METHODS Analyses were based on the African American and White subsample of the Health and Retirement Study (N=8,269). Latent class analysis was used to identify risk types. Chronic health conditions, salivary telomere length (STL), emotional support from family, negative interaction with family, early life adversities, and discrimination were used as class indicators. Latent class multinomial logistic regression was used to identify racial and demographic differences in risk type membership. RESULTS Three distinct risk types were identified: high risk, health risk, and psychosocial risk. African Americans were more likely than Whites to be assigned to the high risk type characterized by chronic health conditions, shorter STL, strained social relationships and high psychosocial stress. African Americans were less likely than Whites to be assigned to the health risk type characterized by chronic health conditions, shorter STL, optimal social relationships and low psychosocial stress. CONCLUSIONS The biopsychosocial risk typology accounted for population heterogeneity, identified high-risk profiles and modifiable factors within risk types that can inform current clinical interventions. The risk types also revealed different patterns of risk and resilience factors and shed light on the interplay between telomere length, stress exposure, chronic disease and accelerated aging in African Americans.
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Discrimination and anxiety: Using multiple polygenic scores to control for genetic liability. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2017224118. [PMID: 33384325 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2017224118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
An established body of research indicates that discrimination is associated with increased symptoms of anxiety and negative affect. However, the association cannot be interpreted unambiguously as an exposure effect because a common set of genetic factors can simultaneously contribute to increased liability for symptoms of anxiety, negative affect, and the perception of discrimination. The present study elucidates the association between discrimination and anxiety/negative affect by implementing strict genetic controls in a large sample of adults. We used data from the biomarker project of the Study of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS), a national probability sample of noninstitutionalized, English-speaking respondents aged 25 to 74 y. Participants who consented to provide genetic data were biologically unrelated and of European ancestry as determined by genotype principal components analysis (n = 1,146). A single structural regression model was fit to the data with three measures of discrimination specified to load onto a latent factor and six measures of anxiety and negative affect specified to load onto a second latent factor. After accounting for potential genetic confounds-polygenic scores for anxiety, depression, and neuroticism and the first five genetic principal components-greater discrimination was associated with greater anxiety/negative affect (β = 0.53, SE = 0.04, P < 0.001). Findings suggest that measures of perceived discrimination should be considered environmental risk factors for anxiety/negative affect rather than indices of genetic liability for anxiety, depression, or neuroticism. Clinical interventions and prevention measures should focus on ways to mitigate the impact of discrimination to improve mental health at the population level.
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Majeno A, Urizar GG, Halim MLD, Nguyen-Rodriguez ST, Gonzalez A. Examining the role of ethnic microaggressions and ethnicity on cortisol responses to an acute stressor among young adults. CULTURAL DIVERSITY & ETHNIC MINORITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 27:135-144. [PMID: 32551733 PMCID: PMC8091947 DOI: 10.1037/cdp0000401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study examined whether the frequency of experiences of ethnic microaggressions and the sensitivity to such experiences were associated with cortisol responses to an acute social stressor (Trier Social Stress Test; TSST) among an ethnically diverse sample of young adults (N = 109, Mage = 18.82 years, SD = 1.40 years, 74% female, 44% Latinx). Method: Self-reported experiences of and sensitivity to microaggressions were assessed using the Everyday Microaggressions Scale. Participants' salivary cortisol was collected before, immediately after, and at three 15-min intervals after the TSST (for a total of 5 salivary samples) to assess their cortisol responses to an acute social stressor. Results: Mixed model analyses revealed that experiencing a higher frequency of microaggressions (p = .005) and being more sensitive to those experiences (p = .001) were associated with a more blunted cortisol response (i.e., lower cortisol reactivity and recovery) to the TSST, relative to experiencing a lower frequency of microaggressions and being less sensitive to them. Furthermore, this blunted cortisol response to the TSST was more prominent among young adults of Latinx and other ethnic backgrounds (i.e., biracial, African American, and Native American) compared to their Asian American and non-Hispanic White peers (p = .034). Conclusion: Findings provide insight into the different ways in which experiences of ethnic microaggressions can be associated with biological markers of stress. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Majeno
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine
| | - Guido G Urizar
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Long Beach
| | - May Ling D Halim
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Long Beach
| | | | - Araceli Gonzalez
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Long Beach
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Cheadle JE, Goosby BJ, Jochman JC, Tomaso CC, Kozikowski Yancey CB, Nelson TD. Race and ethnic variation in college students' allostatic regulation of racism-related stress. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:31053-31062. [PMID: 33229568 PMCID: PMC7733862 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1922025117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Racism-related stress is thought to contribute to widespread race/ethnic health inequities via negative emotion and allostatic stress process up-regulation. Although prior studies document race-related stress and health correlations, due to methodological and technical limitations, they have been unable to directly test the stress-reactivity hypothesis in situ. Guided by theories of constructed emotion and allostasis, we developed a protocol using wearable sensors and daily surveys that allowed us to operationalize and time-couple self-reported racism-related experiences, negative emotions, and an independent biosignal of emotional arousal. We used data from 100 diverse young adults at a predominantly White college campus to assess racism-related stress reactivity using electrodermal activity (EDA), a biosignal of sympathetic nervous system activity. We find that racism-related experiences predict both increased negative emotion risk and heightened EDA, consistent with the proposed allostatic model of health and disease. Specific patterns varied across race/ethnic groups. For example, discrimination and rumination were associated with negative emotion for African American students, but only interpersonal discrimination predicted increased arousal via EDA. The pattern of results was more general for Latinx students, for whom interpersonal discrimination, vicarious racism exposure, and rumination significantly modulated arousal. As with Latinx students, African students were particularly responsive to vicarious racism while 1.5 generation Black students were generally not responsive to racism-related experiences. Overall, these findings provide support for allostasis-based theories of mental and physical health via a naturalistic assessment of the emotional and sympathetic nervous system responding to real-life social experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob E Cheadle
- Department of Sociology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712;
| | - Bridget J Goosby
- Department of Sociology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Joseph C Jochman
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Cara C Tomaso
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | | | - Timothy D Nelson
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
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Hackett RA, Ronaldson A, Bhui K, Steptoe A, Jackson SE. Racial discrimination and health: a prospective study of ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1652. [PMID: 33203386 PMCID: PMC7672934 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09792-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Racism has been linked with poor health in studies in the United States. Little is known about prospective associations between racial discrimination and health outcomes in the United Kingdom (UK). Methods Data were from 4883 ethnic minority (i.e. non-white) participants in the UK Household Longitudinal Study. Perceived discrimination in the last 12 months on the basis of ethnicity or nationality was reported in 2009/10. Psychological distress, mental functioning, life satisfaction, self-rated health, physical functioning and reports of limiting longstanding illness were assessed in 2009/10 and 2011/12. Linear and logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, income, education and ethnicity. Prospective analyses also adjusted for baseline status on the outcome being evaluated. Results Racial discrimination was reported by 998 (20.4%) of the sample. Cross-sectionally, those who reported racial discrimination had a greater likelihood on average of limiting longstanding illness (odds ratio (OR) = 1.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.49; 2.13) and fair/poor self-rated health (OR = 1.50; 95% CI 1.24; 1.82) than those who did not report racial discrimination. Racial discrimination was associated with greater psychological distress (B = 1.11, 95% CI 0.88; 1.34), poorer mental functioning (B = − 3.61; 95% CI -4.29; − 2.93), poorer physical functioning (B = − 0.86; 95% CI -1.50; − 0.27), and lower life satisfaction (B = − 0.40, 95% CI -0.52; − 0.27). Prospectively, those who reported racial discrimination had a greater likelihood on average of limiting longstanding illness (OR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.01; 1.69) and fair/poor self-rated health (OR = 1.30; 95% CI 1.00; 1.69), than those who did not report racial discrimination. Racial discrimination was associated increased psychological distress (B = 0.52, 95% CI 0.20; 0.85) and poorer mental functioning (B = − 1.77; 95% CI -2.70; − 0.83) over two-year follow-up, adjusting for baseline scores. Conclusions UK adults belonging to ethnic minority groups who perceive racial discrimination experience poorer mental and physical health than those who do not. These results highlight the need for effective interventions to combat racial discrimination in order to reduce inequalities in health. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-020-09792-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth A Hackett
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK. .,Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Amy Ronaldson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kamaldeep Bhui
- Centre for Department of Psychiatry & Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah E Jackson
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
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Ilyumzhinova R, Mbayiwa K, Fowle J, Jones C, Hipwell AE, Keenan K. Phenotyping stress exposures related to perinatal health disparities. Dev Psychobiol 2020; 63:1006-1012. [PMID: 33200404 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Black American women living in low-resource environments are exposed to multiple stressors and are at high risk for perinatal complications. Stress exposure likely impacts pregnancy and birth complications via alterations in health systems that are engaged in regulating the stress response. Stressors may vary in terms of magnitude and pattern of effect on such health systems. In the present study, we test associations between three types of stress exposure: perceived stress, negative life events, and discrimination stress on neuroendocrine and cardiac response to a controlled laboratory stressor during the first trimester of pregnancy. In all, 100 pregnant Black women with Medicaid insurance completed a laboratory assessment during which salivary cortisol and heart rate variability (HRV) were used to measure stress response to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Results revealed that only discrimination stress was significantly associated with cortisol and HRV in response to the TSST. High levels of discrimination stress were associated with lower levels of cortisol reactivity and higher levels of HRV across the visit. These results highlight the differential impact of domains of stress exposure on stress regulation during pregnancy and provide further evidence of the impact of discrimination stress on Black American women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimma Ilyumzhinova
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kimberley Mbayiwa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jill Fowle
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Cherrelle Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alison E Hipwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kate Keenan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Lehrer HM, Goosby BJ, Dubois SK, Laudenslager ML, Steinhardt MA. Race moderates the association of perceived everyday discrimination and hair cortisol concentration. Stress 2020; 23:529-537. [PMID: 31888404 PMCID: PMC7769195 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2019.1710487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The influence of discrimination on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function is considered to be more pronounced for racial minority versus majority groups, although empirical support for this argument is not strong. This study examined whether the association of perceived discrimination was more strongly associated with long-term, retrospective cortisol output (as measured by hair cortisol concentration [HCC]) among African American compared to White adults. Participants included 141 community-dwelling adults (72 White, 69 African American; mean age 45.8 years; 67% females). The Everyday Discrimination Scale assessed perceived discrimination. The first 3 cm of proximal scalp hair was analyzed for HCC using enzyme-linked immunoassay. Associations between race, perceived discrimination and HCC were examined using hierarchical multiple regression. African Americans had higher HCC than Whites, but both groups reported perceived discrimination with similar frequency. Race moderated the association between perceived discrimination and HCC (R2 interaction = 0.03, p = 0.007) such that perceived discrimination was positively associated with HCC among African Americans (β = 0.28, p = 0.007), but not Whites (β = -0.11, p = 0.274). Perceived discrimination did not mediate the association between race and HCC (β for indirect effect = 0.025, 95% CI [-.003, 0.087]). Although perceived discrimination did not differ between races, perceived discrimination was positively associated with retrospective levels of cortisol in scalp hair among African Americans but not Whites. This may suggest that characteristics of discrimination other than frequency are particularly salient to HPA axis function among African Americans (e.g. attribution, severity, historical context).LAY SUMMARYThis study found that greater perceived discrimination frequency was associated with greater long-term cortisol secretion (i.e. hair cortisol concentration) among African American compared to White adults. Both groups reported similar discrimination frequency, so the uniqueness of African Americans' experience with discrimination may be salient to HPA axis upregulation for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Matthew Lehrer
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Bridget J. Goosby
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Susan K. Dubois
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mark L. Laudenslager
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mary A. Steinhardt
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Moody DLB, Chang YF, Pantesco EJ, Darden TM, Lewis TT, Brown C, Bromberger JT, Matthews KA. Everyday Discrimination Prospectively Predicts Blood Pressure Across 10 Years in Racially/Ethnically Diverse Midlife Women: Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. Ann Behav Med 2020; 53:608-620. [PMID: 30247506 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kay069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interpersonal discrimination is linked to greater risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and this association varies by race/ethnicity. PURPOSE To examine whether exposure to everyday discrimination prospectively predicts elevated blood pressure (BP), whether this association differs by race/ethnicity, and is mediated by adiposity indices. METHODS Using data for 2,180 self-identified White, Black, Chinese, Japanese, and Hispanic participants from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, we examined associations among exposure to (higher vs. lower) everyday discrimination at baseline and BP and hypertension (HTN; systolic blood pressure [SBP] ≥ 140 mmHg; diastolic blood pressure [DBP] ≥ 90 mmHg; or self-reported HTN medication use) risk over a 10 year period. Additionally, we used the bootstrap method to assess repeated, time-varying markers of central and overall adiposity (waist circumference and body mass index [BMI] (kg/m2), respectively) as potential mediators. RESULTS Exposure to everyday discrimination predicted increases in SBP and DBP over time, even after adjusting for known demographic, behavioral, or medical risk factors. However, greater waist circumference or BMI (examined separately) mediated these observations. Notably, there were no racial/ethnic differences in the observed association and HTN risk was not predicted. CONCLUSIONS The current findings suggest that everyday discrimination may contribute to elevated BP over time in U.S. women, in part, through increased adiposity. These findings demonstrate the complexity of the linkage of discrimination to CVD risk and raise the need to closely examine biobehavioral pathways that may serve as potential mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yue-Fang Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Elizabeth J Pantesco
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Villanova University, Villanova, PA
| | - Taylor M Darden
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, MD
| | - Tené T Lewis
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Charlotte Brown
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Joyce T Bromberger
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Karen A Matthews
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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Brown KM, Diez-Roux AV, Smith JA, Needham BL, Mukherjee B, Ware EB, Liu Y, Cole SW, Seeman TE, Kardia SLR. Social regulation of inflammation related gene expression in the multi-ethnic study of atherosclerosis. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 117:104654. [PMID: 32387875 PMCID: PMC7685527 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to adverse social factors has been associated with an altered inflammatory profile, a risk factor for several acute and chronic diseases. Differential gene expression may be a biological mediator in the relationship. In this study, associations between a range of social factors and expression of inflammation-related genes were investigated. METHODS Social factor and gene expression data were collected from 1,264 individuals in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Inflammation-related genes were identified from the Gene Ontology database. The associations between social factors and gene expression were first assessed using the Global Analysis of Covariance (Global ANCOVA) gene set enrichment test. When the global test was significant, linear regression and elastic net penalized regression were employed to identify the individual gene transcripts within each gene set associated with the social factor. RESULTS Loneliness (p = 0.003), chronic burden (p = 0.002), and major or lifetime discrimination (p = 0.045) were significantly associated with global expression of the chronic inflammatory gene set. Of the 20 transcripts that comprise this gene set, elastic net selected 12 transcripts for loneliness, 8 for chronic burden, and 3 for major or lifetime discrimination. Major or lifetime discrimination was also associated with the inflammatory response (p = 0.029), regulation of the inflammatory response (p = 0.041), and immune response (p = 0.025) gene sets in global analyses, and 53, 136, and 26 transcripts were selected via elastic net for these gene sets respectively. There were no significant associations in linear regression analyses after adjustment for multiple testing. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights gene expression as a biological mechanism through which social factors may affect inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Brown
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States.
| | - Ana V Diez-Roux
- Department of Epidemiology, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Nesbitt Hall, 3215 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, United States.
| | - Jennifer A Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States; Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States.
| | - Belinda L Needham
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States.
| | - Bhramar Mukherjee
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States.
| | - Erin B Ware
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States.
| | - Yongmei Liu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, 300 N Duke St, Durham, NC 27701.
| | - Steven W Cole
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California-Los Angeles, 11-934 Factor Building, UCLA School of Medicine Campus - 167817, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States.
| | - Teresa E Seeman
- Department of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, UCLA Med-Geri, BOX 951687, 2339 PVUB, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States.
| | - Sharon L R Kardia
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States.
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Terry EL, Fullwood MD, Booker SQ, Cardoso JS, Sibille KT, Glover TL, Thompson KA, Addison AS, Goodin BR, Staud R, Hughes LB, Bradley LA, Redden DT, Bartley EJ, Fillingim RB. Everyday Discrimination in Adults with Knee Pain: The Role of Perceived Stress and Pain Catastrophizing. J Pain Res 2020; 13:883-895. [PMID: 32431537 PMCID: PMC7200232 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s235632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Research indicates pain-related disparities in the impact of knee osteoarthritis (OA) across both sex and ethnicity/race. While several factors likely contribute to these disparities, experiences of discrimination are associated with poor OA-related pain, disability, and functional performance. However, the mechanisms that mediate experiences of discrimination and OA-related outcomes are unclear. The current cross-sectional study examined the associations between everyday experiences of discrimination and clinical pain, disability and functional performance among non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) persons with or at risk of knee OA and assessed the serial mediated model of perceived stress and pain catastrophizing on these relationships in women only. PATIENTS AND METHODS Participants were 188 community-dwelling adults who presented with unilateral or bilateral knee pain and screened positive for clinical knee pain. Participants completed several measures including experiences of discrimination, Perceived Stress Scale, Coping Strategies Questionnaire-Revised (CSQ-R): Pain Catastrophizing subscale, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS), and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). RESULTS As compared to NHW participants, NHB individuals reported experiencing significantly higher levels of discrimination (F(1, 175)=26.660, p<0.001), greater levels of pain catastrophizing (F(1, 180)=12.919, p<0.001), higher levels of clinical pain and disability, and lower levels of physical function (ps<0.05). However, perceived stress was positively correlated with discrimination in the NHW group only (NHW females: r=0.40, p<0.01; NHW males: r=0.37, p<0.05). Further, perceived stress and pain catastrophizing mediated the relationship between discrimination and outcome variables (WOMAC pain, GCPS interference [pain disability], and SPPB function) in female participants after controlling for relevant sociodemographic variables (study site, age, race, income, and body mass index). CONCLUSION These results may have implications for the treatment of perceived stress and catastrophizing as a means to reduce the negative impact of experiences of discrimination on the experience of chronic pain, particularly for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Terry
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - M Dottington Fullwood
- Department of Aging and Geriatric Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Staja Q Booker
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Josue S Cardoso
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence (PRICE), Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Kimberly T Sibille
- Department of Aging and Geriatric Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Toni L Glover
- Oakland University, School of Nursing, Rochester, MI, United States
| | - Kathryn A Thompson
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Adriana S Addison
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Division of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Burel R Goodin
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Roland Staud
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Laura B Hughes
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Division of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Laurence A Bradley
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Division of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - David T Redden
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Emily J Bartley
- University of Florida, Community Dentistry and Behavioral Science, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Roger B Fillingim
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence (PRICE), Gainesville, Florida, United States
- University of Florida, Community Dentistry and Behavioral Science, Gainesville, Florida, United States
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Hackett RA, Steptoe A, Lang RP, Jackson SE. Disability discrimination and well-being in the United Kingdom: a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035714. [PMID: 32169928 PMCID: PMC7069317 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Disability discrimination is linked with poorer well-being cross-sectionally. The aim of this study was to explore prospective associations between disability discrimination and well-being. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING The United Kingdom Household Longitudinal Study. PARTICIPANTS Data were from 871 individuals with a self-reported physical, cognitive or sensory disability. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Depression was assessed in 2009/10. Psychological distress, mental functioning, life satisfaction and self-rated health were assessed in 2009/10 and 2013/14. RESULTS Data were analysed using linear and logistic regression with adjustment for age, sex, household income, education, ethnicity and impairment category. Perceived disability discrimination was reported by 117 (13.4%) participants. Cross-sectionally, discrimination was associated with depression (OR=5.40, 95% CI 3.25 to 8.97) fair/poor self-rated health (OR=2.05; 95% CI 1.19 to 3.51), greater psychological distress (B=3.28, 95% CI 2.41 to 4.14), poorer mental functioning (B=-7.35; 95% CI -9.70 to -5.02) and life satisfaction (B=-1.27, 95% CI -1.66 to -0.87). Prospectively, discrimination was associated with increased psychological distress (B=2.88, 95% CI 1.39 to 4.36) and poorer mental functioning (B=-5.12; 95% CI -8.91 to -1.34), adjusting for baseline scores. CONCLUSIONS Perceived disability-related discrimination is linked with poorer well-being. These findings underscore the need for interventions to combat disability discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth A Hackett
- Health Psychology Section, King's College London, London, UK
- Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Raymond P Lang
- Leonard Cheshire Research Centre, Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah E Jackson
- Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
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Peterson LM, Stock ML, Monroe J, Molloy-Paolillo BK, Lambert SF. Racial exclusion causes acute cortisol release among emerging-adult African Americans: The role of reduced perceived control. The Journal of Social Psychology 2020; 160:658-674. [PMID: 32122284 DOI: 10.1080/00224545.2020.1729685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Racial discrimination contributes to stress-related health disparities among African Americans, but less is known about the acute effects of racial exclusion on the hypo-pituitary-adrenocortical response and psychological mediators. Participants were 276 Black/African American emerging-adults (54% female; M age = 21.74, SD = 2.21) who were randomly assigned to be excluded or included by White peers via the game Cyberball. Racial exclusion (vs. inclusion) predicted: greater negative affect (F(1, 276) = 104.885, p < .0001), lower perceived control (F(1, 276) = 205.523, p < .0001), and greater cortisol release (F(1, 274) = 4.575, p = .033). Racial exclusion's impact on cortisol release was mediated by lower perceived control (95% CI: .027, .112), but not negative affect (-.041, .013). These findings suggest that racial exclusion contributes to acute cortisol release, and that reduced perceived control is a consequence of racial discrimination that has important implications for the health of those who experience discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle L Stock
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University
| | | | | | - Sharon F Lambert
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University
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Parra LA, Hastings PD. Challenges to Identity Integration Indirectly Link Experiences of Heterosexist and Racist Discrimination to Lower Waking Salivary Cortisol in Sexually Diverse Latinx Emerging Adults. Front Psychol 2020; 11:228. [PMID: 32161561 PMCID: PMC7053485 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterosexist and racist discrimination may adversely impact neurobiological processes implicated in the physical and psychosocial well-being of sexually diverse Latinx people. Yet, little is known about how experiences of both heterosexist and racist discrimination are associated with adrenocortical and psychological functioning in groups of people with multiply marginalized social group identities. Through the application of the intersectionality, minority stress, and allostatic load frameworks, it was hypothesized that experiences of heterosexist and racist discrimination would be associated with disruptions to diurnal salivary cortisol patterns and challenges to identity integration. A group of sexually diverse (self-identified lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer) Latinx emerging adults (N = 51; ages 18-29, M = 24.06 years; SD = 2.73) provided saliva samples and completed a series of questionnaires during a four-day testing protocol. Heterosexist and racist discrimination were both positively associated with challenges to identity integration. Challenges to identity integration, in turn, were associated with lower intercepts of diurnal cortisol slopes, and heterosexist and racist discrimination were indirectly associated with lower cortisol intercepts via challenges to identity integration. These findings suggest that experiences of heterosexist and racist discrimination may interconnect by challenging sexual and ethnic/racial identity integration and disrupting adaptive adrenocortical regulation among sexually diverse Latinx emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Armando Parra
- Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paul David Hastings
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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