1
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Goodwill JR, Hope MO. Religion and Suicide in Black Emerging Adults: Examining Pathways Through Hope and Meaning in Life. J Youth Adolesc 2024; 53:1119-1133. [PMID: 38244102 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-023-01930-3] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
While suicide persists as a leading cause of death for Black emerging adults in the U.S., few studies identify specific positive psychological mechanisms that can be leveraged to reduce future risk. The current study, therefore, explores whether religion is related to suicidal ideation via hope and meaning in life among a sample of n = 375 Black emerging adults ages 18-25-years-old (M = 20.79, SD = 2.22). Structural equation modeling techniques were used to measure direct and indirect associations. Primary results indicate that non-organizational religiosity (e.g., reading religious texts, listening to religious music, prayer) was positively associated with hope, presence of meaning in life, and search for meaning in life. Presence of meaning in life was the strongest contributor to decreased suicidal ideation. Further, non-organizational religiosity was indirectly associated with less suicidal ideation via hope and presence of meaning in life. Personal forms of religious involvement, and not service attendance, appear to be the most salient aspects of religion to consider when exploring pathways between religion and suicidality during this particular developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelle R Goodwill
- University of Chicago, Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Meredith O Hope
- The College of Wooster, Department of Psychology, Wooster, OH, USA
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2
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Kane L, Benson K, Stewart ZJ, Daughters SB. The impact of spiritual well-being and social support on substance use treatment outcomes within a sample of predominantly Black/African American adults. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 158:209238. [PMID: 38061630 PMCID: PMC10947916 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209238] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRO Substance use and associated problems often return following treatment for substance use disorder (SUD), which disproportionally impact Black/African American (AA) individuals. Social support and spiritual well-being are sources of recovery capital identified as particularly important among Black/AA adults. Social support and spiritual well-being are also posited mechanisms in 12-step; thus, this study tested the effects of social support and spiritual well-being on substance use outcomes over time, distinct from 12-step involvement, among Black/AA adults post-SUD treatment. The study hypothesized that social support and spiritual well-being would demonstrate significant interactions with time, respectively, on substance use frequency and substance use consequences, above the effect of 12-step involvement. METHOD The study drew data from a study of 262 adults (95.4 % Black/AA) entering residential SUD treatment (NCT#01189552). Assessments were completed at pretreatment and at 3-, 6-, and 12-months posttreatment. Two generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) tested the effects of social support and spiritual well-being, above the effect of 12-step involvement, on substance use frequency and substance use consequences over the course of 12-months posttreatment. RESULTS Higher spiritual well-being predicted significantly less frequent substance use during recovery (β = 0.00, p = .03). Greater 12-step involvement predicted significantly fewer substance use consequences during recovery (β = 0.00, p = .02). In post hoc analyses the effect of spiritual well-being and 12-step involvement dissipated by 3.5- and 6.6-months posttreatment, respectively. The study found no significant effects of social support over time. DISCUSSION Spiritual well-being and 12-step involvement are associated with lower substance use and substance use consequences, respectively, in the early months of posttreatment recovery among Black/AA adults. These findings contribute to the growing recovery capital literature informing paths to recovery and sources of support outside of 12-step affiliation. However, these effects diminish over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Kane
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States of America.
| | - Katherine Benson
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States of America
| | - Zachary J Stewart
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States of America
| | - Stacey B Daughters
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States of America
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3
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Ransome Y, Valido AD, Espelage DL, Clements GL, Harrell C, Eckel C, Price N, Nassau R, Nyhan K, Taggart TL. A systematic review of how social connectedness influences associations between racism and discrimination on health outcomes. Epidemiol Rev 2023; 45:44-62. [PMID: 37477041 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxad009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Racial discrimination is a well-known risk factor of racial disparities in health. Although progress has been made in identifying multiple levels through which racism and racial discrimination influences health, less is known about social factors that may buffer racism's associations with health. We conducted a systematic review of the literature with a specific focus on social connectedness, racism, and health, retrieving studies conducted in the United States and published between January 1, 2012, and July 30, 2022, in peer-reviewed journals. Of the 787 articles screened, 32 were selected for full-text synthesis. Most studies (72%) were at the individual level, cross-sectional, and among community/neighborhood, school, or university samples. Studies had good methodological rigor and low risk of bias. Measures of racism and racial discrimination varied. Discrimination scales included unfair treatment because of race, schedule of racist events, experiences of lifetime discrimination, and everyday discrimination. Measures of social connectedness (or disconnectedness) varied. Social-connectedness constructs included social isolation, loneliness, and social support. Mental health was the most frequently examined outcome (75%). Effect modification was used in 56% of studies and mediation in 34% of studies. In 81% of studies, at least 1 aspect of social connectedness significantly buffered or mediated the associations between racism and health. Negative health associations were often weaker among people with higher social connectedness. Social connectedness is an important buffering mechanism to mitigate the associations between racial discrimination and health. In future studies, harmonizing metrics of social connectedness and racial discrimination can strengthen causal claims to inform interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Ransome
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Alberto D Valido
- School of Education, Applied Developmental Sciences and Special Education, Human Development and Family Science, School Psychology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States
| | - Dorothy L Espelage
- School of Education, Applied Developmental Sciences and Special Education, Human Development and Family Science, School Psychology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States
| | - Graceson L Clements
- School of Education, Applied Developmental Sciences and Special Education, Human Development and Family Science, School Psychology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States
| | - Crystal Harrell
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Caroline Eckel
- Department of Sociology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Natalie Price
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, United States
| | - Rachel Nassau
- The George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20052, United States
| | - Kate Nyhan
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Tamara L Taggart
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, United States
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Wang JC, McFarland W, Arayasirikul S, Wilson EC. The association between religiosity and resilience among young trans women. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0263492. [PMID: 37523378 PMCID: PMC10389706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young transgender women (trans women) experience poor health in part due to discrimination. Factors that promote resilience may help young trans women positively adapt to discrimination, resulting in attenuation of poor health outcomes. While religion is sometimes a source of stigma and transphobia, qualitative studies have identified religiosity as an important resilience resource for young trans women. The goals of this study were to quantitatively measure religiosity and resilience among young trans women and to assess whether they are associated. METHODS From 2012-2013, 300 young trans women between the ages of 16-24 years were enrolled in a longitudinal study; we examined the cross-sectional baseline data on demographics, religiosity, and resilience. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis examined the correlation between demographics (age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, income) and religiosity among young trans women. Additionally, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis examined the association between religiosity and resilience among young trans women, controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, and income. RESULTS Participants who reported high religiosity had significantly greater odds (aOR 1.78, 95% CI 1.05-3.01, p = .03) of reporting high resilience compared to those reporting low religiosity. Black/African American participants had significantly higher odds (aOR 6.16, 95% CI 2.34-16.20, p = < .001) of reporting high religiosity compared to those who identified as White. CONCLUSION Religiosity may be an important resilience resource for young trans women. Gender affirming religious and spiritual interventions may promote resilience among some young trans women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy C Wang
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Willi McFarland
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Sean Arayasirikul
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Erin C Wilson
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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Choi MJ, Hong JS, Travis R, Kim J. Effects of school environment on depression among Black and White adolescents. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 51:1181-1200. [PMID: 36493332 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22969] [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: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
While the school environment is critical for adolescents' psychological development, how the school environment influences depression among different racial groups has not been fully explored. This study aims to identify the effects of the school environment (school connectedness, school climates, trouble with peers and teachers) on depressive symptoms among Black and White adolescents. It also compares how the effects of school environments differ between Black and White adolescents. This study analyzed wave 6 of the Fragile Families and Child Well-being Study, a longitudinal birth cohort study in 20 major cities across the United States. Almost three-fourth (73.39%) of the adolescents were Black, and 26.61% were White. About half (50.46%) of the adolescents were females, and the mean age of adolescents was 15.39. Multiple regression analysis showed that higher school connectedness and less frequent troubles with teachers were associated with lower depression among Black adolescents. In contrast, only school connectedness was associated with depression among White adolescents. Higher school connectedness was associated with lower depressive symptoms for both Black and White adolescents. However, the magnitude of the effects of school connectedness was found to be statistically weaker among Black adolescents. These findings suggest a need for creating a racially equitable school environment that makes every student feel more connected to their schools, especially Black students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Jin Choi
- School of Social Work, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA
| | - Jun Sung Hong
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Raphael Travis
- School of Social Work, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA
| | - Jangmin Kim
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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6
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Quinn CR, Waller B, Hughley A, Boyd D, Cobb R, Hardy K, Radney A, Voisin DR. The Relationship between Religion, Substance Misuse, and Mental Health among Black Youth. RELIGIONS 2023; 14:325. [PMID: 38009108 PMCID: PMC10673626 DOI: 10.3390/rel14030325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Studies suggest that religion is a protective factor for substance misuse and mental health concerns among Black/African American youth despite reported declines in their religious involvement. However, few studies have investigated the associations among religion, substance misuse, and mental health among Black youth. Informed by Critical Race Theory, we evaluated the correlations between gender, depression, substance misuse, and unprotected sex on mental health. Using multiple linear regression, we assessed self-reported measures of drug use and sex, condom use, belief in God, and religiosity on mental health among a sample of Black youth (N = 638) living in a large midwestern city. Results indicated drug use, and sex while on drugs and alcohol, were significant and positively associated with mental health symptoms. Belief in God was negatively associated with having sex while on drugs and alcohol. The study's findings suggest that despite the many structural inequalities that Black youth face, religion continues to be protective for Black youth against a myriad of prevalent problem behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille R. Quinn
- Center for Equitable Family & Community Well-Being, School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Bernadine Waller
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Ashura Hughley
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Donte Boyd
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ryon Cobb
- School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NY 08901, USA
| | - Kimberly Hardy
- School of Social Work, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, NC 28301, USA
| | - Angelise Radney
- College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Dexter R. Voisin
- School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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7
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Rosales R, Sellers CM, Lee CS, Santos B, O'Brien K, Colby SM. Examining Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Association of Victimization and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors with Alcohol Use Among Sexual Minority Youth. LGBT Health 2023; 10:109-120. [PMID: 36044041 PMCID: PMC9986026 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Integrating Minority Stress Theory and Bagge and Sher's Theoretical Framework of the Alcohol-Suicide Attempt Relation, this study aimed to test whether experiencing both minority stress and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) had a greater strength of association with Latinx and Black sexual minority youth (SMY)'s alcohol use compared with that of White SMY. Methods: Using data on 2341 non-Latinx Black, Latinx, and non-Latinx White SMY from the 2015 and 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Surveys, we tested the prevalence of STBs, victimization, and alcohol use for Black and Latinx participants compared with White participants. Multivariate logistic regression analyses tested the main effects of STBs, victimization, and race/ethnicity on alcohol use. Finally, interaction terms assessed the interaction among STBs, victimization, and race/ethnicity on alcohol use. Results: The results supported our hypothesis, based on Minority Stress Theory, that experiencing victimization would be associated with greater alcohol use. Results also supported Bagge and Sher's theoretical framework showing that suicide plan and attempts were associated with greater alcohol use. When taking all of these stressors into account, results showed that Latinx SMY who experienced victimization had greater current prevalence of alcohol use than their White counterparts. However, Latinx SMY who were victimized and experienced suicidal ideation reported lower alcohol use than White SMY. Conclusion: These findings support the double jeopardy and resiliency hypotheses, which suggest that minority stressors have differing associations for each racial/ethnic SMY group's alcohol use. More research is needed that helps to disentangle the protective and risk factors for alcohol use among Black and Latinx SMY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rosales
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Christina M Sellers
- College of Social, Sciences, Policy, and Practice, School of Social Work, Simmons University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina S Lee
- School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bryan Santos
- Independent Researcher, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kimberly O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Suzanne M Colby
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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8
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Parker JS, Purvis L, Williams B. Religious/Spiritual Struggles and Mental Health Among Black Adolescents and Emerging Adults: A Meta-synthesis. JOURNAL OF BLACK PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00957984221136800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a meta-synthesis to understand how religious/spiritual struggles are linked to Black adolescents’ and emerging adults’ mental health, considering their various socio-demographic identities. To address this research aim, we reviewed and synthesized qualitative data from 19 studies that included the voices of approximately 382 Black adolescents and emerging adults. Data were analyzed using a seven-step meta-ethnography analysis approach. Findings revealed three themes highlighting contributors to Black youths’ negative mental health in relation to their religious/spiritual struggles: (a) Rejected and Unloved, (b) Abandoned and Dismissed, and (c) Doubt, Disengaged, and Reconciliation. Moreover, difficult religious/spiritual experiences were nested within contextual issues associated with typical developmental milestones (i.e., increased sexual activity and religious/spiritual identity development) and participants’ race, gender, sexual orientation, and mental health status (and related trauma). This meta-synthesis provides a foundation for understanding and responding to Black youths’ religious/spiritual struggles when providing culturally responsive and social justice-oriented mental health support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee Purvis
- Lousiana State University in Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
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9
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Scott MJ, Robbins PA, Conde E, Bentley-Edwards KL. Depression in the African American Christian Community: Examining Denominational and Gender Differences. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:2838-2854. [PMID: 35290555 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-022-01528-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Depression among African American adults can diminish their daily functioning and quality of life. African American communities commonly uses religion and spirituality (R/S) to cope with life stressors; however, it is unclear whether R/S contribute to mental health risk or resilience. Since men and women differ in their R/S participation and Christian denominations have varying gender roles and expectations, it is critical to determine if they experience similar mental health effects. This study examines whether self-reported denominational affiliation predicts dissimilar odds of reporting elevated depressive symptoms among African American young adults and if these effects are different for women and men, using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health). Results indicate that the odds of having elevated depressive symptoms are three times higher for Catholic women compared to Baptist women, but no denominational differences were found among men. This study highlights how unique denominational and gender subcultures within African American Christian communities may predict depression outcomes. Healthcare professionals and church-based outreach programs should consider the role of denomination and gender when designing and participating in efforts to support mental health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Scott
- The Samuel DuBois Cook Center On Social Equity, Duke University, 411 West Chapel Hill St, Box 104407, Durham, NC, 27701, USA.
| | - Paul A Robbins
- The Samuel DuBois Cook Center On Social Equity, Duke University, 411 West Chapel Hill St, Box 104407, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Eugenia Conde
- The Samuel DuBois Cook Center On Social Equity, Duke University, 411 West Chapel Hill St, Box 104407, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Keisha L Bentley-Edwards
- The Samuel DuBois Cook Center On Social Equity, Duke University, 411 West Chapel Hill St, Box 104407, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
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10
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Hubbard SA, Lakey B, Jones SCT, Cage JL. Black Racial Identity, Perceived Support, and Mental Health Within Dyadic Relationships. JOURNAL OF BLACK PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00957984221079209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Black racial identity (BRI), particularly centrality and private regard, have been linked to mental health and are often theorized to reflect trait-like and situational influences. We estimated the strength of trait and dyadic relationships (a type of situation) for BRI and its links to subclinical anxiety and depression. Black university students ( N = 110) rated their BRI, mental health, and perceived support when with or thinking about three relationship partners (e.g., mothers, friends). Variance components analyses estimated the strength of trait and dyadic effects. All constructs had significant trait and dyadic components. Participants with higher trait private regard and centrality reported better mental health than those with lower BRI. Additionally, BRI varied depending upon which partner was rated (dyadic effects). When a participant experienced high private regard or centrality with a partner, the participant had low subclinical depression and anxiety in that relationship. When a participant had high BRI and mental health when with a partner, the participant saw the partner as highly supportive. Findings suggest the importance of supportive others for adaptive BRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sultan A. Hubbard
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Brian Lakey
- Department of Psychology, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI, USA
| | - Shawn C. T. Jones
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jamie L. Cage
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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11
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Smith NC, Nicholson HL. Perceived discrimination and mental health among African American and Caribbean Black adolescents: ethnic differences in processes and effects. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:687-704. [PMID: 32977736 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2020.1814998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Although the relationship between perceived discrimination and mental health among Black youth is well-documented, the mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. Drawing from the stress process model, this study examines two psychosocial mediators - self-esteem and self-efficacy - in the association between perceived discrimination and mental health among African American and Caribbean Black adolescents. This research addresses three primary research questions: First, how is perceived discrimination associated with mental health? Second, to what extent do self-esteem and self-efficacy mediate the relationship between perceived discrimination and mental health? Finally, do these relationships and processes differ between African American and Caribbean Black adolescents?Design: Data for these analyses come from the National Survey of American Life - Adolescent Supplement. We use generalized structural equation modeling to examine relationships among perceived discrimination, psychosocial resources, and mental health.Results: For both African American and Caribbean Black adolescents, more frequent perceptions of discriminatory events were associated with greater depressive symptoms and a higher likelihood of having an anxiety disorder diagnosis. However, the association between perceived discrimination and depressive symptoms was significantly stronger for Caribbean Black adolescents. Generally, self-esteem and self-efficacy were found to be significant mediators in the association between perceived discrimination and mental health, although mechanisms varied between African American and Caribbean Black youth.Conclusion: African American and Caribbean Black adolescents are highly susceptible to experiences of discrimination that negatively affect their mental health. Heterogeneity among Black youth populations must be considered when developing interventions to reduce exposure to and the effects of discrimination among these adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C Smith
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Harvey L Nicholson
- Department of Sociology and Criminology and Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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12
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Reyes-Portillo JA, Masia Warner C, Kline EA, Bixter MT, Chu BC, Miranda R, Nadeem E, Nickerson A, Ortin Peralta A, Reigada L, Rizvi SL, Roy AK, Shatkin J, Kalver E, Rette D, Denton EG, Jeglic EL. The Psychological, Academic, and Economic Impact of COVID-19 on College Students in the Epicenter of the Pandemic. EMERGING ADULTHOOD (PRINT) 2022; 10:473-490. [PMID: 38603124 PMCID: PMC8832132 DOI: 10.1177/21676968211066657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Initial research has indicated that college students have experienced numerous stressors as a result of the pandemic. The current investigation enrolled the largest and most diverse sample of college students to date (N = 4714) from universities in New York (NY) and New Jersey (NJ), the epicenter of the North American pandemic in Spring 2020. We described the impact on the psychological, academic, and financial health of college students who were initially most affected and examined racial/ethnic group differences. Results indicated that students' mental health was severely affected and that students of color were disproportionately affected by academic, financial, and COVID-related stressors. Worry about COVID-19 infection, stressful living conditions, lower grades, and loneliness emerged as correlates of deteriorating mental health. COVID-19's mental health impact on college students is alarming and highlights the need for public health interventions at the university level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carrie Masia Warner
- Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Brian C. Chu
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | - Erum Nadeem
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Amanda Nickerson
- University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Shireen L. Rizvi
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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13
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Glover CS, Li H. PARENT SOCIALIZATION TO RACIAL COPING: IMPLICATIONS FOR BLACK EMERGING ADULTS’ GROWTH MINDSET AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING. RESEARCH IN HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15427609.2021.2014279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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14
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Busby DR, Hope MO, Lee DB, Heinze JE, Zimmerman MA. Racial Discrimination and Trajectories of Problematic Alcohol Use Among African American Emerging Adults: The Role of Organizational Religious Involvement. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2021; 49:242-255. [PMID: 34965768 DOI: 10.1177/10901981211051650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Racial discrimination jeopardizes a wide range of health behaviors for African Americans. Numerous studies demonstrate significant negative associations between racial discrimination and problematic alcohol use among African Americans. Culturally specific contexts (e.g., organized religious involvement) often function protectively against racial discrimination's adverse effects for many African Americans. Yet organized religious involvement may affect the degree to which racial discrimination increases problematic alcohol use resulting in various alcohol use trajectories. These links remain understudied in emerging adulthood marked by when individuals transition from adolescence to early adult roles and responsibilities. We use data from 496 African American emerging adults from the Flint Adolescent Study (FAS) to (a) identify multiple and distinct alcohol use trajectories and (b) examine organizational religious involvement's protective role. Three trajectory classes were identified: the high/stable, (20.76% of sample; n = 103); moderate/stable, (39.52% of sample; n = 196); and low/rising, (39.72% of the sample; n = 197). After controlling for sex, educational attainment, and general stress, the interaction between racial discrimination and organized religious involvement did not influence the likelihood of classifying into the moderate/stable class or the low/rising class, compared with the high/stable class. These results suggest organized religious involvement counteracts, but does not buffer racial discrimination's effects on problematic alcohol use. Findings emphasize the critical need for culturally sensitive prevention efforts incorporating organized religious involvement for African American emerging adults exposed to racial discrimination. These prevention efforts may lessen the role of racial discrimination on health disparities related to alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle R Busby
- Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.,University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Meredith O Hope
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,The College of Wooster, Wooster, OH, USA
| | - Daniel B Lee
- Children's Minnesota Research Institute, Saint Paul, MN, USA
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Sharif MZ, Truong M, Alam O, Dunn K, Nelson J, Kavanagh A, Paradies Y, Priest N. The association between experiences of religious discrimination, social-emotional and sleep outcomes among youth in Australia. SSM Popul Health 2021; 15:100883. [PMID: 34401461 PMCID: PMC8350065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Religious-based hate crimes are on the rise worldwide. However, the relationship of religious discrimination on health and well-being, especially earlier on the lifecourse, is largely understudied. This study examines the prevalence of religious discrimination and the relationship it has on social-emotional adjustment and sleep outcomes among a diverse sample of students in Australia. Methods Data came from Speak Out Against Racism, a population-representative cross-sectional study of 4664 public school students in grades 5–9 in Australia in 2017. An adaption of the Adolescent Discrimination Distress Index (ADDI), was used to derive four measures of religious discrimination (peer, school, societal and the sum of those as a “total” score). The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire measured the total difficulties, conduct, emotional, and prosocial behavior subscales. Measures of sleep outcomes included duration, latency, and disruption. Results 27 % (95 % CI 22.82, 31.12) of students reported experiences of direct total religious discrimination with higher levels being reported by students identifying as a religious minority. There was strong evidence that experiences of religious discrimination (across all four sources) was related to all measures of socioemotional adjustment and sleep outcomes. Discussion Religious discrimination is an understudied form of social disadvantage that has implications for adolescents’ development, health and well-being. Conclusion: More programs, particularly in the school-context, address religious-based discrimination may reduce inequities in health. There is a noted gap in population health research examining how religion operates as a structural determinant of health. The relationship between discrimination and indicators of health and wellbeing have been understudied among young children. Religious discrimination is associated with poor indicators of social-emotional adjustment across all four measures. Religious discrimination is associated with adverse sleep outcomes (duration and latency) among young school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mienah Z Sharif
- Center for the Study of Racism, Social Justice and Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Centre for Social Research and Methods, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Mandy Truong
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Oishee Alam
- Religion and Society Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kevin Dunn
- School of Social Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Nelson
- School of Communications, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Anne Kavanagh
- Disability and Health Unit, Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yin Paradies
- Faculty of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Naomi Priest
- Centre for Social Research and Methods, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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16
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Rose T, Hope MO, Powell TW, Chan V. A very present help: The role of religious support for Black adolescent girls' mental well-being. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 49:1267-1281. [PMID: 33997987 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study explored religious emotional support as a mediator of the association between organized religious involvement (ORI) and mental well-being among African American and Caribbean Black girls. Data are drawn from a nationally representative survey of Black adolescents. The sample was composed of African American (n = 412) and Caribbean Black (n = 165) girls, aged 13-17. Structural equation modeling tested direct and indirect effects of ORI on mental well-being, through religious emotional support. For African American girls, ORI was not directly related to any of the mental well-being outcomes. Religious emotional support mediated the association between ORI and self-esteem, mastery, and life satisfaction. For Caribbean Black girls, ORI was negatively associated with mastery and life satisfaction. Religious emotional support mediated the association between ORI and life satisfaction. Results suggest that the well-being benefits of ORI for Black girls only remain significant in the presence of religious emotional support and are different for ethnic subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theda Rose
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Meredith O Hope
- National Center for Institutional Diversity, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Terrinieka W Powell
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Victoria Chan
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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17
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Tabler J, Mykyta L. Forgoing Care in Southernmost Texas: Compounding Hardship and Health Among Latinx Immigrant Border Residents. FAMILY & COMMUNITY HEALTH 2021; 44:171-183. [PMID: 32841999 DOI: 10.1097/fch.0000000000000269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study examines how material hardship and perceived discrimination are associated with health care access and self-rated health among lower Rio Grande Valley residents. Of respondents to surveys administered at 2 clinic systems (N = 546), approximately 67% reported forgoing medical care in the past 12 months. Regression results suggested that perceived discrimination (odds ratio [OR] = 1.05, P < .05) and material hardship (OR = 1.63, P < .001) increased the odds of forgoing care. Also, discrimination (OR = 1.04, P < .01) and material hardship (OR = 1.24, P < .001) were independently associated with worse self-rated health. Service providers should consider screening for hardship experiences to target resources to address these stressors on patient health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Tabler
- Department of Criminal Justice and Sociology, University of Wyoming, Laramie (Dr Tabler); and Department of Sociology and Anthropology, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg (Dr Mykyta)
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18
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Lee DB, Peckins MK, Miller AL, Hope MO, Neblett EW, Assari S, Muñoz-Velázquez J, Zimmerman MA. Pathways from racial discrimination to cortisol/DHEA imbalance: protective role of religious involvement. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2021; 26:413-430. [PMID: 30198761 PMCID: PMC6409100 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2018.1520815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Racial discrimination (RD) is hypothesized to dysregulate the production of stress reactive hormones among African Americans. Psychological processes that may mediate the association between RD and such dysregulation (e.g. cortisol/DHEA ratio) are not well articulated. Organizational religious involvement (ORI) has been discussed as a psychological protective factor within the context of RD, but our understanding of ORI as a physiological protective factor remains limited. We evaluated whether RD was directly and indirectly (through depressive symptoms) associated with an imbalance of cortisol and DHEA hormones, and whether ORI buffered these direct and/or indirect pathways.Design: Data were drawn from the Flint Adolescent Study, an ongoing interview study of youth that began in 1994. Participants were 188 African American emerging adults (47.3% Female, ages 20-22). We used mediation and moderated-mediation analyses, as outlined by Hayes [2012. PROCESS SPSS Macro. [Computer Software and Manual]. http://www.afhayes.com/public/process.pdf], to evaluate the study aims.Results: We found that depressive symptoms mediated the association between RD and the cortisol/DHEA ratio. We also found that depressive symptoms mediated the association between RD and the cortisol/DHEA ratio for individuals reporting low and moderate levels of ORI, but not at high levels.Conclusions: Our findings support the socio-psychobiological model of racism and health [Chae et al. 2011. "Conceptualizing Racial Disparities in Health: Advancement of a Socio-Psychobiological Approach." Du Bois Review: Social Science Research on Race 8 (1): 63-77. doi:10.1017/S1742058X11000166] and suggest that the psychological toll of RD can confer physiological consequences. Moreover, ORI may disrupt pathways from RD to cortisol/DHEA ratio by buffering the psychological toll of RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B. Lee
- Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Alison L. Miller
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann
Arbor, Michigan
| | - Meredith O. Hope
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann
Arbor, Michigan
| | - Enrique W. Neblett
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Shervin Assari
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann
Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Marc A. Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann
Arbor, Michigan
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19
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Williams KDA, Adkins AE, Kuo SIC, LaRose JG, Utsey SO, Guidry JPD, Dick D, Carlyle KE. Risk, Protective, and Associated Factors of Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms and Campus Health Services Utilization Among Black Men on a College Campus. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2021; 9:505-518. [PMID: 33686626 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-00981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to analyze relationships among social and environmental determinants serving as risk, protective, and important covariate factors for mental health risk and help-seeking among Black men on a college campus. METHODS A secondary data analysis was conducted utilizing an ongoing, campus-wide survey at a large, urban, public university. Measures included depressive and anxiety symptoms; campus service utilization; risk factors (e.g., financial status); protective factors (social support/religiosity); and additional covariates (substance use/GPA). Multiple linear regressions were conducted to examine relationships between these factors, symptoms and help-seeking. RESULTS Data is included for 681 students. Findings indicated that stressful life events were associated with higher levels of anxiety symptoms (B = 0.39, p < 0.001) and depressive symptoms (B = 0.33, p = 0.013). Cannabis use (B = 1.14, p = .020) was also associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms. We found that financial status (B = 0.21, p = 0.041) was positively associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms and endorsement of religiosity was associated with lower levels anxiety (B = - 0.23, p = 0.019) and depressive symptoms (B = - 0.32, p = 0.035). Religiosity predicted lower utilization of campus health services. CONCLUSIONS The key findings indicated that Black men's mental health is negatively influenced by stressful live events and cannabis use. As religiosity was associated with lower levels of symptoms and utilization, it may be beneficial to assess this in future work. Further research is needed to address and improve mental health and help-seeking among these men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kofoworola D A Williams
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 750 N. Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Amy E Adkins
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities & Sciences, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Sally I-Chun Kuo
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities & Sciences, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jessica G LaRose
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Shawn O Utsey
- Department of African American Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities & Sciences, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jeanine P D Guidry
- Robertson School of Media and Culture, Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities & Sciences, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Danielle Dick
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities & Sciences, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Kellie E Carlyle
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
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20
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Chinyamurindi W, Rashe R. Called to the ministry: Narratives of career choice amongst female pastors in South Africa. SA JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.4102/sajip.v47i0.1810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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21
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Lee DB, Hope MO, Heinze JE, Cunningham M, Caldwell CH, Zimmerman MA. Psychological pathway from racial discrimination to the physical consequences of alcohol consumption: Religious coping as a protective factor. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2020; 19:453-475. [PMID: 30589400 PMCID: PMC6597340 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2018.1540956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
While racial discrimination (RD) is associated with increased alcohol-related problems among African Americans (AAs), researchers have not examined how RD contributes to the physical consequences of alcohol consumption over time. In addition, the protective role of religious coping has been discussed but not formally tested in pathways connecting RD to the physical consequences of alcohol consumption. To address this gap, we estimated latent growth mediation models in a sample of 465 AA emerging adults. We found that RD increased physical consequences of alcohol consumption over time through psychological distress. After identifying two profiles of religious coping (i.e., low and high religious coping), RD indirectly influenced the physical consequences of alcohol consumption through psychological distress among AAs in the low religious coping group. Our results signal the importance of developing alcohol-misuse prevention programs that address the psychological consequences of RD. Integrating culturally tailored coping strategies (e.g., religious coping) may bolster the efficacy of these prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B. Lee
- Center for Human Growth and Development, University of
Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Meredith O. Hope
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School
of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Justin E. Heinze
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School
of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mary Cunningham
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School
of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Cleopatra H. Caldwell
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School
of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Marc A. Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School
of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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22
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Jackson AN, Butler-Barnes ST, Stafford JD, Robinson H, Allen PC. "Can I Live": Black American Adolescent Boys' Reports of Police Abuse and the Role of Religiosity on Mental Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E4330. [PMID: 32560418 PMCID: PMC7344856 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17124330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
State sanctioned violence aimed at Black individuals and communities is an issue that has pervaded American history and society since before the establishment of the United States. For Black males, anticipating and preparing for involuntary police contact, unfortunately, is an inevitable part of life. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of reports of police abuse on mental health and perceived racial out-group perceptions and the protective role of religiosity among a nationally representative sample of Black American adolescent boys (Mage = 14.98). Linear multiple regression was used to determine the interactive effects of subjective religiosity and reported police abuse on Black American adolescent boys. Higher reports of subjective religiosity were associated with lower depressive symptomatology. Reports of police abuse were associated with lower public regard beliefs (belief that society views Black Americans less favorably). Results highlight the impact experiencing police abuse has on Black adolescent boys and we conclude with implications, areas for future research and intervention points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N. Jackson
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA; (S.T.B.-B.); (H.R.); (P.C.A.)
| | - Sheretta T. Butler-Barnes
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA; (S.T.B.-B.); (H.R.); (P.C.A.)
| | - Jewel D. Stafford
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA;
| | - Helen Robinson
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA; (S.T.B.-B.); (H.R.); (P.C.A.)
| | - Phylicia C. Allen
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA; (S.T.B.-B.); (H.R.); (P.C.A.)
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“My Teacher Doesn’t Like Me”: Perceptions of Teacher Discrimination and School Discipline among African-American and Caribbean Black Adolescent Girls. EDUCATION SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/educsci10020044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the impact of perceived teacher discrimination on the school discipline of African-American and Caribbean Black adolescent girls. The findings are drawn from a nationally representative sample of (n = 410) African-American and (n = 193) Caribbean Black adolescent girls age 13 to 17 (Mage = 15). Results indicate that perceiving discrimination from teachers was associated with higher school discipline (e.g., suspension, expulsion, and spending time in a jail, detention center) for African-American girls. For Caribbean Black girls, higher household income and school bonding was associated with lower school discipline. Older Caribbean Black girls were also more likely to receive higher school discipline. However, perceiving discrimination from teachers was not associated with school discipline for Caribbean Black girls. The developmental significance and implications for future research are discussed.
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Hope MO, Taggart T, Galbraith-Gyan KV, Nyhan K. Black Caribbean Emerging Adults: A Systematic Review of Religion and Health. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:431-451. [PMID: 31828596 PMCID: PMC7722983 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-019-00932-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Religion, a prominent factor among Black diasporic communities, influences their health outcomes. Given the increase in Black Caribbeans living in the United States, it is important to understand how religion's function among different ethnic groups of Black Americans. We systematically reviewed four databases and included articles of any study design if they (a) focused on the religious experiences of emerging adults (18-29 years) identifying as Black Caribbean in the United States, in light of medical, public health, or mental health outcomes, and (b) were published before November 30, 2018. Study results contribute to future studies' conceptualization and measurement of religion among Black Caribbean emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith O Hope
- National Center for Institutional Diversity, University of Michigan, 610 East University Avenue, Suite 3338, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Tamara Taggart
- Department of Prevention & Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kayoll V Galbraith-Gyan
- School of Nursing, Northeastern University, Robinson Hall, 336 Huntingdon Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Kate Nyhan
- Cushing/Whitney Medical Library, Yale University, P.O. Box 208014, New Haven, CT, 06520-8014, USA
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Willis KD, Nelson T, Moreno O. Death Anxiety, Religious Doubt, and Depressive Symptoms across Race in Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E3645. [PMID: 31569371 PMCID: PMC6801496 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16193645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the direct and indirect relationships among death anxiety, religious doubt, and depressive symptoms in older adults. This study also investigates race as a moderator for these relationships. This study used data from the Religion, Aging, and Health Survey. Participants identified as Christian, identified as Black or White, lived in a non-institutionalized household within the U.S., were retired, and spoke English. Using PROCESS, results revealed that religious doubt partially mediated the relationship between death anxiety and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, moderated mediation models revealed that race moderated the relationship between religious doubt and depressive symptoms. Specifically, there was significant, positive relationship between religious doubt and depressive symptoms for participants who identified as Black but not White. Results highlight how religious doubt can influence depressive outcomes among the geriatric communities of color. Limitations and future directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelcie D Willis
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street Box 842018, Richmond, VA 23284, USA.
| | - Tamara Nelson
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.
| | - Oswaldo Moreno
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street Box 842018, Richmond, VA 23284, USA.
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Hope MO, Lee DB, Hsieh HF, Hurd NM, Sparks HL, Zimmerman MA. Violence Exposure and Sexual Risk Behaviors for African American Adolescent Girls: The Protective Role of Natural Mentorship and Organizational Religious Involvement. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2019; 64:241-254. [PMID: 31206754 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
African American adolescent girls are at increased risk of being exposed to community violence and being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection. Fewer studies, however, have examined the protective roles of natural mentorship and organizational religious involvement as potential moderators that could lessen the effects of violence exposure on health risk behavior. Data from 273 African American ninth grade girls were used to test hypothesized independent and moderated-moderation models. Results suggest that natural mentorship and religious involvement were protective for girls who reported at least one mentor and moderate to high levels of religious involvement. Our findings may be relevant for community stakeholders and organizations that directly interact with religious institutions and community programs that focus on outreach to African American adolescent girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith O Hope
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health, Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel B Lee
- Children's Minnesota Research Institute, Children's Minnesota Hospitals and Clinics, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Hsing-Fang Hsieh
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Noelle M Hurd
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Haley L Sparks
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Marc A Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Zapolski TC, Beutlich MR, Fisher S, Barnes-Najor J. Collective ethnic-racial identity and health outcomes among African American youth: Examination of promotive and protective effects. CULTURAL DIVERSITY & ETHNIC MINORITY PSYCHOLOGY 2019; 25:388-396. [PMID: 30556705 PMCID: PMC6579722 DOI: 10.1037/cdp0000258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Racial discrimination is associated with numerous negative health outcomes, including increased risk for depression and anxiety symptoms and substance use. Positive affect toward of one's ethnic or racial group (i.e., ethnic-racial identity affirmation) has been shown to buffer the negative effects of racial discrimination on health outcomes. The extent to which one believes his or her group is valued by others (i.e., positive collective ethnic-racial identity) has also been proposed to be protective. However, to date a limited body of research has examined the moderating effect of collective ethnic-racial identity on health, and among available studies, findings are mixed. METHOD African American youth (N = 612; 58.2% female, M grade = 8) completed measures on experiences of discrimination, mood symptoms, substance use, ethnic-racial identity affirmation, and collective ethnic-racial identity (assessed using the Collective Self-Esteem Scale). RESULTS Controlling for demographic variables and affirmation, a significant main effect was found for collective ethnic-racial identity, such that believing that others viewed your group positively was associated with better health outcomes among African American youth. However, collective ethnic-racial identity was not found to buffer the effects of discrimination on health outcomes. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the importance of examining collective ethnic-racial identity and the promotive effect it can have on health outcomes for African Americans. More research is needed to better understand if there are health outcomes in which collective ethnic-racial identity may also mitigate risk as a consequence of racial discrimination. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Assari S, Helmi H, Bazargan M. Polypharmacy in African American Adults: A National Epidemiological Study. PHARMACY 2019; 7:E33. [PMID: 30934828 PMCID: PMC6630878 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7020033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite the association between polypharmacy and undesired health outcomes being well established, very little is known about epidemiology of polypharmacy in the African American community. We are not aware of any nationally representative studies that have described the socioeconomic, behavioral, and health determinants of polypharmacy among African Americans. Aims: We aimed to investigate the socioeconomic and health correlates of polypharmacy in a national sample of African American adults in the US. Methods: The National Survey of American Life (NSAL, 2003⁻2004) included 3,570 African American adults. Gender, age, socioeconomic status (SES; education attainment, poverty index, and marital status), access to the healthcare system (health insurance and having a usual source of care), and health (self-rated health [SRH], chronic medical disease, and psychiatric disorders) in addition to polypharmacy (5 + medications) as well as hyper-polypharmacy (10 + medications) were measured. Logistic regressions were applied for statistical analysis. Results: that About 9% and 1% of all African American adults had polypharmacy and hyper-polypharmacy, respectively. Overall, higher age, higher SES (education and poverty index), and worse health (poor SRH, more chronic medical disease, and psychiatric disorders) were associated with polypharmacy and hyper-polypharmacy. Individuals with insurance and those with a routine place for healthcare also had higher odds of polypharmacy and hyper-polypharmacy. Conclusions: Given the health risks associated with polypharmacy, there is a need for systemic evaluation of medication use in older African Americans with multiple chronic conditions. Such policies may prevent medication errors and harmful drug interactions, however, they require effective strategies that are tailored to African Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Hamid Helmi
- School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
| | - Mohsen Bazargan
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Hardy K, Bugella NE. Making Breast Cancer (Black) History: Results of a Church-Based Primary Prevention Study. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 34:251-259. [PMID: 30907267 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2019.1580658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer rates for African American women are lower than that of their White peers, yet their mortality rate is disproportionately higher. This study sought to address the disparity through a community-based primary prevention study targeting African American women in the Black church utilizing the public health model of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. The study centered on the meaningful intersection of race, gender, and faith as key factors in increasing breast health knowledge and breast cancer risk factors. The results reveal that African American women respond positively to intervention models centered on salient aspects of their identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Hardy
- a School of Social Work , Fayetteville State University , Fayetteville , North Carolina , USA
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Assari S, Mistry R, Lee DB, Caldwell CH, Zimmerman MA. Perceived Racial Discrimination and Marijuana Use a Decade Later; Gender Differences Among Black Youth. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:78. [PMID: 30968004 PMCID: PMC6438901 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Researchers have reported gender differences in the association between perceived racial discrimination (PRD) and substance use including marijuana use (MU). A limited number of longitudinal studies, however, have documented the long-term effect of PRD during adolescence on subsequent MU in young adulthood. Objective: In the current longitudinal study, we tested gender differences in the association between baseline PRD during adolescence and subsequent MU during young adulthood within Black population. Methods: A cohort of 595 Black (278 male and 317 female) ninth grade students were followed for 13 years from 1999 (mean age 20) to 2012 (mean age 33). Participants were selected from an economically disadvantaged urban area in the Midwest, United States. The independent variable was PRD measured in 1999. The outcome was average MU between 2000 and 2012 (based on eight measurements). Covariates included age, socio-demographics (family structure, and parental employment), and substance use by friends and parents. Gender was the focal moderator. Linear regression was used for statistical analysis. Results: In the pooled sample, PRD in 1999 was not associated with average MU between 2000 and 2012. We did, however, find an interaction effect between baseline PRD and gender on average MU, suggesting stronger association for males than females. In gender-specific models, baseline PRD predicted average MU between 2000 and 2012 for males, but not for females. Conclusion: Exposure to PRD during late adolescence may have a larger role on MU of male than female Black young adults. Although we found that males are more vulnerable to the effects of PRD on MU, PRD should be prevented regardless of race, gender, and other social identities. While PRD is pervasive among Black Americans, exposure to PRD increase the risk of MU for Black males. Hence, substance use prevention efforts for Black males, in particular, should emphasize coping with PRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ritesh Mistry
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Daniel B. Lee
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Cleopatra Howard Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Marc A. Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Wright LS, Branscum P, Maness S, Larson D, Taylor EL, Mayeux L, Cheney MK. Parents' beliefs of the Black Church's role in teen pregnancy prevention. J Adolesc 2019; 72:52-63. [PMID: 30825754 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parents are important decision makers in black churches. The objective of this qualitative study was to identify African American parents' beliefs of the Black Church's role in preventing teen pregnancy and promoting healthy teen relationships. METHODS Parent members (n = 36) of 27 predominately Black churches in two southwestern US cities participated in semi-structured interviews from February-June 2017. A question path was developed based on literature searches, key informant interviews, and a previous study with local pastors, and questions focused on parents' knowledge/beliefs about 1) sexuality education, 2) the church's role in preventing teen pregnancy, and 3) implementation obstacles. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded using NVivo, and open-coded for themes to investigate patterns across codes and participants. Transcripts were then reviewed for quotes to represent each theme. RESULTS Five themes were identified, with multiple subthemes. Most parents said there should be no boundaries on the type of sexuality information shared by their church, but later changed their minds after reviewing a list of potential topics. Parents listed 'parent-child communication', 'goals and dreams', and 'relationships' as the most important topics for teen pregnancy prevention intervention. Parents said information shared during workshops should be judgement-free and realistic. Parents most often said pastors and/or youth pastors/directors should deliver sexual health information. Parents believed older adults and other parents may oppose sexual education. CONCLUSIONS By understanding parents' beliefs of teen pregnancy prevention programs, public health practitioners can understand concerns, modify implementation strategies, and utilize parental support to gain buy-in before planning and implementing programs.
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Hope MO, Taylor RJ, Nguyen AW, Chatters LM. Church Support among African American and Black Caribbean Adolescents. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND FAMILY STUDIES 2019; 28:3037-3050. [PMID: 32952379 PMCID: PMC7500483 DOI: 10.1007/s10826-019-01479-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M O Hope
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - R J Taylor
- School of Social Work and Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - A W Nguyen
- Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106
| | - L M Chatters
- School of Social Work, School of Public Health and Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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Pachter LM, Caldwell CH, Jackson JS, Bernstein BA. Discrimination and Mental Health in a Representative Sample of African-American and Afro-Caribbean Youth. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2018; 5:831-837. [PMID: 28916954 PMCID: PMC5854514 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-017-0428-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racism and discrimination are psychosocial stressors that affect the health of minority populations. While discrimination has been associated with poor mental health, little is known about the relationship between discrimination and mental health outcomes in youth nationally. Furthermore, mental and behavioral health consequences of discrimination may differ in different minority groups. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study is to determine (1) how common perceptions of discrimination are in a nationally representative sample of African-American (AA) and Afro-Caribbean (AC) teens, (2) the relationship between discrimination and mental health conditions, and (3) whether discrimination has different associations with mental health in AA and AC youth. DESIGN Cross-sectional comparison study SETTING: National Survey of American Life-Adolescent Supplement, a nationwide sample of African-American and Afro-Caribbean youth drawn from a nationally representative household survey of AA and AC population PARTICIPANTS: One thousand, one hundred and seventy AA and AC youth between 13 and 17 years EXPOSURE: Experiences with discrimination (Everyday Discrimination Scale) MAIN OUTCOMES: Lifetime and past 12-month major depression and anxiety RESULTS: Ninety percent of AA and 87% of AC youth experienced discrimination. Discrimination was significantly associated with lifetime and 12-month major depression and lifetime and 12-month anxiety. There were no differences in the associations between discrimination and mental health between AA and AC youth except for lifetime anxiety: as discrimination increased, the likelihood of lifetime anxiety disorder increased at a higher rate among AC youth compared to AA. CONCLUSIONS Discrimination is a common psychosocial stressor in African-American and Afro-Caribbean youth. It is associated with poor mental health outcomes. There was no difference in the occurrence of discrimination between African-American and Afro-Caribbean youth or in its mental health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee M Pachter
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours/AI duPont Hospital for Children, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803, USA.
| | | | - James S Jackson
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Assari S, Moghani Lankarani M. Workplace Racial Composition Explains High Perceived Discrimination of High Socioeconomic Status African American Men. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E139. [PMID: 30060492 PMCID: PMC6120025 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8080139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sociological and epidemiological literature have both shown that socioeconomic status (SES) protects populations and individuals against health problems. Recent research, however, has shown that African Americans gain less from their SES and African Americans of high SES, particularly males, may be vulnerable to perceived discrimination, as explained by the Minorities' Diminished Returns theory. One potential mechanism for this phenomenon is that high SES African Americans have a higher tendency to work in predominantly White workplaces, which increases their perceived discrimination. It is, however, unknown if the links between SES, working in predominantly White work groups and perceived discrimination differ for male and female African Americans. AIM To test the associations between SES, workplace racial composition and perceived discrimination in a nationally representative sample of male and female African American adults. METHODS This study included a total number of 1775 employed African American adults who were either male (n = 676) or female (n = 1099), all enrolled from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL). The study measured gender, age, SES (educational attainment and household income), workplace racial composition and perceived discrimination. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was applied in the overall sample and also by gender. RESULTS In the pooled sample that included both genders, high education and household income were associated with working in a predominantly White work group, which was in turn associated with more perceived discrimination. We did not find gender differences in the associations between SES, workplace racial composition and perceived discrimination. CONCLUSION Although racial composition of workplace may be a mechanism by which high SES increases discriminatory experiences for African Americans, males and females may not differ in this regard. Policies are needed to reduce discrimination in racially diverse workplaces. This is particularly the case for African Americans who work in predominantly White work environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- BRITE Center for Science, Research and Policy, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health (CRECH), School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA.
| | - Maryam Moghani Lankarani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
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Assari S. Suicide Attempts in Michigan HealthCare System; Racial Differences. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E124. [PMID: 29966335 PMCID: PMC6071112 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8070124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-based studies have documented racial differences in social, psychiatric, and medical determinants of suicidal ideation; however, less is known about racial differences in the profile of suicide attempts in clinical settings. AIM The current study aimed to compare Blacks and Whites who attempted suicide for demographic factors, socioeconomic status, medical history, psychiatric disorders, and outcomes. METHODS This retrospective study was a retrospective chart review of DataDirect, which is an electronic data repository of the Michigan Health Care System, 2014 to 2017. This analysis included 6147 suicide attempts (5388 Whites and 759 Blacks). Race, sociodemographic factors, medical history, psychiatric disorders, and outcomes were measured. RESULTS Blacks and Whites with suicide attempt did not differ in age or gender, but varied by insurance type. Blacks were more commonly under Medicare and Medicaid, while Whites were more commonly under private insurance or self-pay (p < 0.05). Blacks with suicide attempt were more likely to be obese, while Whites with suicide attempt were more likely to be underweight. Frequency of psychiatric disorders, including depression, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and psychosis, were not different between Whites and Blacks with suicide attempt; however, medical conditions showed a different profile across racial groups. When compared to Whites, Blacks had higher prevalence of uncomplicated hypertension, renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coagulopathy, and obesity (p < 0.05 for all comparisons). In contrast, Whites had higher prevalence of other neurological disorders than Blacks. There were no differences in in-patient survival rate between Whites and Blacks who attempted suicide. CONCLUSION There are considerable differences between Blacks and Whites with at least one suicide attempt. Although their psychiatric diagnoses seem to be similar, Blacks who have attempted suicide attempt have more medical comorbidities than their White counterparts. Lack of racial disparities in in-patient mortality rate of suicide attempts in the Michigan Health Care System is promising news given the higher physical health needs of Blacks when compared to Whites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health (CRECH), University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- BRITE Center for Science, Research and Policy, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Assari S, Gibbons FX, Simons R. Depression among Black Youth; Interaction of Class and Place. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E108. [PMID: 29895752 PMCID: PMC6025590 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8060108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although high socioeconomic status (SES) is traditionally conceptualized as a health protective factor, recent literature has documented positive associations between SES (e.g., income) and depression among Blacks, including Black youth. To extend the results of this recent literature, the current study used the Family and Community Health Study (FACHS) data to examine the multiplicative effects of gender, place, and SES on average depressive symptoms of Black youth over a long period of time. FACHS, 1997⁻2017, followed 889 Black children aged 10⁻12 years old for up to 18 years. Depressive symptoms were measured in seven waves. The main predictors of interest were two SES indicators, parent education and family income measured at baseline (1997). Main outcome of interest was average depressive symptoms over the 18 year follow up period. Place of residence and gender were the focal moderators. Linear regression models were used for data analysis. In the pooled sample, living in a predominantly White area was associated with higher average depressive symptoms over time, however, this association was fully explained by higher perceived racial discrimination in the predominantly White areas. We found an interaction between income and place of residence on average depressive symptoms, suggesting that higher income is associated with more depressive symptoms in predominantly White compared to predominantly Black areas. Place did not interact with parent education on average depressive symptoms. Gender also did not interact with education or income on depressive symptoms. Findings suggest that place and SES may interact on depressive symptoms of Black youth, with high income becoming a risk factor for depressive symptoms in predominantly White areas. How SES indicators, such as income, protect or become a risk factor depend on other contextual factors, such as place of residence. There is a need to reduce discrimination experienced by Blacks, especially in predominantly White areas. Meanwhile, Black youth who live in predominantly White areas may require additional help that enhances their coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- BRITE Center for Science, Research and Policy, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Frederick X Gibbons
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Ronald Simons
- Department of Sociology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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Chatters LM, Nguyen AW, Taylor RJ, Hope MO. Church and Family Support Networks and Depressive Symptoms among African Americans: Findings from the National Survey of American Life. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2018; 46:403-417. [PMID: 29755153 PMCID: PMC5944602 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.21947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAims:We examined the associations between informal social support from church members and social support from extended family members and depressive symptoms within a national probability sample of African American adults ranging in age from 18 to 93.Methods:This analysis used data from the National Survey of American Life and accounted for religious service attendance and various demographic variables that have known associations with and are consequential for mental health.Results:Frequency of contact with church and family members and emotional support from family were inversely associated with depressive symptoms, and negative church and family interactions were positively associated with depressive symptoms. Emotional support from church members, however, was unrelated to depressive symptoms.Conclusion:This study underscores the important contributions of church relationships to depressive symptoms among African Americans across the adult life span, and confirms that these associations are independent of family relationship factors and religious service attendance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Chatters
- University of Michigan, School of Social Work, 1080 South University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Ann W Nguyen
- Case Western Reserve University, Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, 11235 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106
| | - Robert Joseph Taylor
- University of Michigan, School of Social Work, 1080 South University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Meredith O Hope
- University of Michigan, Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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Assari S, Gibbons FX, Simons RL. Perceived Discrimination among Black Youth: An 18-Year Longitudinal Study. Behav Sci (Basel) 2018; 8:E44. [PMID: 29702587 PMCID: PMC5981238 DOI: 10.3390/bs8050044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent research has suggested vulnerability to perceived racial discrimination (PRD) as a mechanism behind high levels of depression seen in high socioeconomic status (SES) Black males. To better understand the effects of gender and SES on shaping experiences of PRD among Black youth in the United States, we used data from the Family and Community Health Study (FACHS) to explore the trajectory of PRD in Black youth by gender, SES, and place. Methods: Data came from FACHS, 1997⁻2017, which followed 889 children aged 10⁻12 years old at Wave 1 (n = 478; 53.8% females and n = 411; 46.2% males) for up to 18 years. Data were collected in seven waves. The main predictors of interest were gender, SES (parent education and annual family income), age, and place of residence. Main outcomes of interest were baseline and slope of PRD. Latent growth curve modeling (LGCM) was used for data analysis. Results: Gender, SES, place, and age were correlated with baseline and change in PRD over time. Male, high family income, and younger Black youth reported lower PRD at baseline but a larger increase in PRD over time. Youth who lived in Iowa (in a predominantly White area) reported higher PRD at baseline and also an increase in PRD over time. High parental education was not associated with baseline or change in PRD. Conclusion: In the United States, Black youth who are male, high income, and live in predominantly White areas experience an increase in PRD over time. Future research is needed on the interactions between gender, SES, and place on exposure and vulnerability of Black youth to PRD. Such research may explain the increased risk of depression in high SES Black males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Road, SPC 5763, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
| | - Frederick X Gibbons
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Ronald L Simons
- Department of Sociology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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Assari S, Preiser B, Lankarani MM, Caldwell CH. Subjective Socioeconomic Status Moderates the Association between Discrimination and Depression in African American Youth. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E71. [PMID: 29677115 PMCID: PMC5924407 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8040071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Most of the literature on the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and health is focused on the protective effects of SES. However, a growing literature suggests that high SES may also operate as a vulnerability factor. Aims: Using a national sample of African American youth, this study compared the effects of perceived discrimination on major depressive disorder (MDD) based on SES. Methods: The current cross-sectional study included 810 African American youth who participated in the National Survey of American Life-Adolescent supplement. The independent variable was perceived discrimination. Lifetime, 12-month, and 30-day MDD were the dependent variables. Age and gender were covariates. Three SES indicators (subjective SES, income, and poverty index) were moderators. We used logistic regressions for data analysis. Results: Perceived discrimination was associated with higher risk of lifetime, 12-month, and 30-day MDD. Interactions were found between subjective SES and perceived discrimination on lifetime, 12-month, and 30-day MDD, suggesting a stronger effect of perceived discrimination in youth with high subjective SES. Objective measures of SES (income and poverty index) did not interact with perceived discrimination on MDD. Conclusion: While perceived discrimination is a universally harmful risk factor for MDD, its effect may depend on the SES of the individual. Findings suggest that high subjective SES may operate as a vulnerability factor for African American youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Brianna Preiser
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | | | - Cleopatra H Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Assari S, Miller RJ, Taylor RJ, Mouzon D, Keith V, Chatters LM. Discrimination Fully Mediates the Effects of Incarceration History on Depressive Symptoms and Psychological Distress Among African American Men. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2018; 5:243-252. [PMID: 28405962 PMCID: PMC6556396 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-017-0364-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM Using a nationally representative sample of African American men, this study investigated the associations between lifetime history of incarceration, discrimination, and mental health (e.g., depressive symptoms and psychological distress). We hypothesized that discrimination would fully mediate the association between incarceration history and mental health outcomes among African American men. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, our analysis included 1271 African American men who participated in the National Survey of American Life (NSAL), 2001-2003. Incarceration history was the main independent variable. Depressive symptoms and psychological distress were the dependent variables. Everyday discrimination was the mediator. Age, education, and income were covariates. Structural equation models (SEMs) were used for data analysis. RESULTS Among African American men, incarceration history was positively associated with perceived discrimination, depressive symptoms, and psychological distress. Everyday discrimination fully mediated the associations between incarceration history and both depressive symptoms and psychological distress. CONCLUSION Discrimination may play an important role in the mental health problems of African American men with a history of incarceration. These findings have public policy implications as well as clinical implications for mental health promotion of African American men. Policies that reduce preventable incarceration or at least reduce subsequent discrimination for those who have been incarcerated may enhance mental health of previously incarcerated African American men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Road, SPC 5763, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2700, USA.
| | | | - Robert Joseph Taylor
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Program for Research on Black Americans, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dawne Mouzon
- Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Verna Keith
- Race and Ethnic Studies Institute, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Linda M Chatters
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Program for Research on Black Americans, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Assari S, Moghani Lankarani M, Caldwell CH. Discrimination Increases Suicidal Ideation in Black Adolescents Regardless of Ethnicity and Gender. Behav Sci (Basel) 2017; 7:E75. [PMID: 29113117 PMCID: PMC5746684 DOI: 10.3390/bs7040075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Discrimination is a common experience for Blacks across various developmental periods. Although much is known about the effect of discrimination on suicidal ideation of adults, less is known about the same association in Black youth. AIM We examined the association between discrimination and suicidal ideation in a national sample of Black youth. We also explored gender and ethnic differences in this association. METHODS We used data from the National Survey of American Life-Adolescents (NSAL-A), 2003-2004. In total, 1170 Black adolescents entered the study. This number was composed of 810 African American and 360 Caribbean Black youth (aged 13 to 17 years). Demographic and socioeconomic factors were controls, perceived discrimination was the predictor, and lifetime suicidal ideation was the outcome. Logistic regression was used to test the association between perceived discrimination and suicidal ideation in the pooled sample, as well as based on ethnicity and gender. RESULTS In the pooled sample of Black youth, higher perceived discrimination was associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.09; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.02-1.17). This association was significant net of age, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status. We did not find interactions between perceived discrimination and ethnicity or gender on suicidal ideation. Perceived discrimination was associated with suicidal ideation in African Americans (CI = 1.09; 95% CI = 1.01-1.17) and Caribbean Blacks (CI = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.03-1.32), males (CI = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.00-1.25), and females (CI = 1.08; 95% CI = 1.00-1.16). CONCLUSION Discrimination jeopardizes the mental health of Black youth. In a universal pattern, discrimination is associated with suicidal ideation in Black youth. More research is needed on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 4250 Plymouth Road, SPC 5763, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Maryam Moghani Lankarani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 4250 Plymouth Road, SPC 5763, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Cleopatra Howard Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
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Does Religious Involvement Mitigate the Effects of Major Discrimination on the Mental Health of African Americans? Findings from the Nashville Stress and Health Study. RELIGIONS 2017; 8. [PMID: 35991943 PMCID: PMC9390084 DOI: 10.3390/rel8090195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Several decades of scholarly research have revealed the significant toll of discrimination experiences on the well-being of African Americans. Given these findings, investigators have become increasingly interested in uncovering any potential resources made available to African Americans for mitigating the psychosocial strains of discrimination. The current study contributes to this literature by testing whether various indicators of religious involvement—e.g., church attendance, prayer, and religious social support—buffer the noxious effects of major discrimination experiences on the mental health outcomes (i.e., depression and life satisfaction) of African Americans. We analyze data from the African American subsample (n = 627) of Vanderbilt University’s Nashville Stress and Health Study, a cross-sectional probability sample of adults living in Davidson County, Tennessee between the years 2011 and 2014. Results from multivariate regression models indicated (1) experiences of major discrimination were positively associated with depression and negatively associated with life satisfaction, net of religious and sociodemographic controls; and (2) religious social support offset and buffered the adverse effects of major discrimination on both mental health outcomes, particularly for those respondents who reported seeking support the most often. We discuss the implications and limitations of our study, as well as avenues for future research.
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Taylor RJ. Religious Perspectives on the Impact of Race on Health and Social Behaviors across the Life Course: An Introduction to a Special Issue. RACE AND SOCIAL PROBLEMS 2017; 9:91-94. [PMID: 28685002 PMCID: PMC5495024 DOI: 10.1007/s12552-017-9209-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Joseph Taylor
- School of Social Work, Program for Research on Black Americans, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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