1
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Motley R, Williamson E, Quinn C. Prevalence and Correlates of Exposure (Direct and Indirect) to Perceived Racism-Based Police Violence among Black Emerging Adult College Students. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 39:497-508. [PMID: 38608004 PMCID: PMC11209778 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2024.2341838] [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] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence makes plain that exposure to perceived racism-based events, particularly for Black emerging adults aged 18-29, represents a major public health concern in the United States given its widespread prevalence and documented association with adverse health outcomes. However, research on the prevalence and correlates of exposure to perceived racism-based police violence (RPV) for Black emerging adults is scant. The current study examines the prevalence and correlates of RPV exposure among a sample of 300 Black emerging adult college students, utilizing computer-assisted surveys. Univariate, bivariate, and multiple linear regression analyzes were conducted. We found moderately low rates for direct RPV exposure (Mean = 5.85) and moderately high rates (Mean = 10.4) for indirect exposure. Being younger and having incomes greater than $10,000 were significant predictors of direct RPV exposure, whereas being female and older were significant predictors of indirect RPV exposure. Our findings provide implications for future research and underscore the need for social work clinicians to include the RPV scales during their assessments for traumatic experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Motley
- School of Social Work, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, USA
| | - Eric Williamson
- Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston CollegeChestnut Hill, USA
| | - Camille Quinn
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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2
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Jouriles EN, Sitton MJ, Rosenfield D, Lui PP, McDonald R. Interpersonal Violence, Racial Discrimination, and Mental Health Symptoms Among Adolescents of Color in the Juvenile-Justice System. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:3158-3183. [PMID: 38328921 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241227981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The current study examined how interpersonal racial discrimination experiences operate together with other forms of interpersonal violence to contribute to mental health symptoms among justice-involved adolescents of color. Participants were 118 justice-involved adolescents of color aged 14 to 17 (M = 15.77, SD = 1.08; 52.5% male; 77.1% Black/African American) and their mothers. At baseline, adolescents reported on experiences of interpersonal racial discrimination, harsh parenting, teen dating violence, and exposure to interparental physical intimate partner violence. At baseline and the 3-month follow-up assessment, adolescents reported on trauma symptoms, and adolescents and their mothers reported on the adolescents' externalizing and internalizing symptoms. Multivariate multilevel modeling results indicated that interpersonal racial discrimination experiences contributed additively to adolescent mental health symptoms at both the baseline and 3-month follow-up assessments, after accounting for exposure to other forms of interpersonal violence. The current findings highlight the importance of considering adolescents' experiences of interpersonal racial discrimination, together with other forms of interpersonal violence, in work focused on understanding the mental health symptoms of justice-involved adolescents of color.
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3
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Beaulieu L, Kwak D, Jimenez-Gomez C, Morgan G. Implementing culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices with checklists and goal setting. J Appl Behav Anal 2024. [PMID: 38922863 DOI: 10.1002/jaba.1095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
We discuss the use of two empirically validated behavior-change methods-checklists and goal setting-and designed a checklist to assist behavior analysts in improving their behavioral services to be more culturally responsive and trauma informed. We also present pilot data evaluating the use of the checklist and goal setting on the inclusion of culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices in behavior support plans designed for students in a public school. The training package was effective for both participants, and the participants' weekly goals corresponded to the observed changes in their behavior plans. Moreover, both participants strongly agreed that the checklist was valuable and easy to use and reported increases in their perceived abilities to implement culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices posttraining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Beaulieu
- Special Education Department, Newton Public Schools, Newton, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Kwak
- Department of Behavioral Pyschology, Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Gabrielle Morgan
- Department of Applied Behavior Analysis, Bay Path University, Longmeadow, MA, USA
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4
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Arnold TD, Polenick CA, Maust DT, Blow FC. Interpersonal discrimination and depressive symptoms among older Black and African American adults. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304168. [PMID: 38843241 PMCID: PMC11156267 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
To examine the association between recent experiences of discrimination and depressive symptom presentation and severity among a U.S. sample of older Black and African American adults. A cross-sectional survey of 124 Black and African American adults aged 50 and older in the United States was conducted assessing interpersonal discrimination and depressive symptoms. The Perceived Ethnic Discrimination Questionnaire assessed four forms of interpersonal discrimination. A measure of heightened vigilance to bias assessed anticipatory coping with discrimination experiences. Past-month affective and somatic symptoms of depression were assessed using the Depressive and Somatic Symptoms Scale. All forms of interpersonal racial discrimination were positively associated with greater affective symptom severity. Being avoided, devalued, and threatened or actively physically harmed were associated with greater somatic symptom severity. Vigilant coping was positively associated with affective symptom severity but not somatic symptom severity. Racial discrimination is linked to depression severity among older Black and African American and varies by symptom. This study helps inform work on processes linking discrimination with poorer psychological outcomes and will allow for more effective interventions and prevention efforts that are tailored to older minority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomorrow D. Arnold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Courtney A. Polenick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Donovan T. Maust
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Frederic C. Blow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
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5
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Keum BT, Wong MJ, Sanders I. Racial Hate at the Intersection of Online and Offline Worlds: The Joint Impact of Online and Offline Racism on the Mental Health of Racially Minoritized Individuals. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:2487-2506. [PMID: 38149586 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231220015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
With the everyday influence of social media and online platforms, racially minoritized individuals face the risk of experiencing racial discrimination in both offline and online contexts. Yet, there is scant research on how online and offline racism could jointly impact the mental health of racially minoritized individuals. Thus, the study examined online racism as a moderator in the link between offline racism and mental health issues. Using data from 651 racially minoritized emerging adults (Mage = 22.15, SD = 3.39), a moderation analysis was conducted using the PROCESS macro with bias-corrected bootstrapping (10,000 resamples). Experiencing more offline racism was significantly associated with greater mental health issues. Online racism was a significant moderator in the link between offline racism and mental health issues. The link between offline racism and mental health issues was not significant at low levels of online racism. However, the link was significant and strengthened at mean to high levels of online racism. The results suggest complex interactions in understanding the compounding impact of online and offline racism on mental health costs among racially minoritized individuals. Implications for future research on understanding the interplay between online and offline racism are discussed.
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6
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Jeon ME, Robison M, Robertson L, Udupa NS, Potter MR, Joiner TE. From identity-based distress to thinking "I am better off being dead:" Minority stress, posttraumatic cognitions, and suicidal ideation. J Affect Disord 2024; 354:143-151. [PMID: 38490586 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicidal ideation (SI) disproportionately impacts individuals with minoritized race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Minority stress - i.e., traumatic, insidious distress that results from acts of discrimination - may lead to the formation of posttraumatic cognitions that may generalize to suicidal ideation, elevating SI risk in minoritized populations. The current study aimed to test this potential relationship by examining whether minority stress and posttraumatic cognitions accounted for the association between discrimination and SI. METHODS Series of structural equation models, including multigroup confirmatory factor analyses conducted to test invariance of latent constructs, were estimated on cross-sectional data collected from minoritized young adults (n = 337). RESULTS Results supported the hypothesized model: experience of discrimination indirectly associated with SI via correlations shared between minority stress and posttraumatic cognitions. Experiences of discrimination lacked a significant correlation with SI while accounting for minority stress and posttraumatic cognition variance. Invariance testing conducted to account for applicability of the model across race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and plurality of minoritized identities all demonstrated that the model was applicable across these identity dimensions. LIMITATIONS Granular inspection of identity dimensions was infeasible due to sample size and causal inferences cannot be drawn given cross-sectional nature of the data used. CONCLUSIONS Posttraumatic cognitions within the context of discrimination may be effective treatment targets for minoritized individuals who present with minority stress and SI. Future studies should aim to replicate such findings longitudinally to infer temporality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Eun Jeon
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, United States of America.
| | - Morgan Robison
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, United States of America
| | - Lee Robertson
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, United States of America
| | - Nikhila S Udupa
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, United States of America
| | - Miracle R Potter
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, United States of America
| | - Thomas E Joiner
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, United States of America
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7
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Webb EK, Carter SE, Ressler KJ, Fani N, Harnett NG. The neurophysiological consequences of racism-related stressors in Black Americans. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 161:105638. [PMID: 38522814 PMCID: PMC11081835 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Racism-related stressors, from experiences of both implicit and explicit racial discrimination to systemic socioeconomic disadvantage, have a cumulative impact on Black Americans' health. The present narrative review synthesizes peripheral (neuroendocrine and inflammation markers), psychophysiological (heart-rate variability, skin conductance), and neuroimaging (structural and functional) findings that demonstrate unique associations with racism-related stress. Emerging evidence reveals how racism-related stressors contribute to differential physiological and neural responses and may have distinct impacts on regions involved with threat and social processing. Ultimately, the neurophysiological effects of racism-related stress may confer biological susceptibility to stress and trauma-related disorders. We note critical gaps in the literature on the neurophysiological impact of racism-related stress and outline additional research that is needed on the multifactorial interactions between racism and mental health. A clearer understanding of the interactions between racism-related stress, neurophysiology, and stress- and trauma-related disorders is critical for preventative efforts, biomarker discovery, and selection of effective clinical treatments for Black Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kate Webb
- McLean Hospital, Division of Depression and Anxiety, Belmont, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sierra E Carter
- Georgia State University, Department of Psychology, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- McLean Hospital, Division of Depression and Anxiety, Belmont, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Negar Fani
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nathaniel G Harnett
- McLean Hospital, Division of Depression and Anxiety, Belmont, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA, USA.
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8
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Vázquez E, Juturu P, Burroughs M, McMullin J, Cheney AM. Continuum of Trauma: Fear and Mistrust of Institutions in Communities of Color During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cult Med Psychiatry 2024; 48:290-309. [PMID: 37776491 PMCID: PMC11217119 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-023-09835-3] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Historical, cultural, and social trauma, along with social determinants of health (SDOH), shape health outcomes, attitudes toward medicine, government, and health behaviors among communities of color in the United States (U.S.). This study explores how trauma and fear influence COVID-19 testing and vaccination among Black/African American, Latinx/Indigenous Latin American, and Native American/Indigenous communities. Leveraging community-based participatory research methods, we conducted 11 virtual focus groups from January to March of 2021 with Black/African American (n = 4), Latinx/Indigenous Latin American (n = 4), and Native American/Indigenous (n = 3) identifying community members in Inland Southern California. Our team employed rapid analytic approaches (e.g., template and matrix analysis) to summarize data and identify themes across focus groups and used theories of intersectionality and trauma to meaningfully interpret study findings. Historical, cultural, and social trauma induce fear and mistrust in public health and medical institutions influencing COVID-19 testing and vaccination decisions in communities of color in Inland Southern California. This work showcases the need for culturally and structurally sensitive community-based health interventions that attend to the historical, cultural, and social traumas unique to racial/ethnic minority populations in the U.S. that underlie fear and mistrust of medical, scientific, and governmental institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Vázquez
- Department of Social Medicine, Population and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA, 92521-9800, USA
| | - Preeti Juturu
- Department of Community Health Sciences, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Burroughs
- Center for Healthy Communities, University of California, Riverside, USA
| | - Juliet McMullin
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Ann M Cheney
- Department of Social Medicine, Population and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA, 92521-9800, USA.
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9
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Aronson KR, Morgan NR, Rudi JH, McCarthy KJ, Perkins DF. The differential impact of COVID-19 on the psychological stress of post-9/11 veterans: Gender, race, and ethnicity. Stress Health 2024; 40:e3360. [PMID: 38141014 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to economic turndowns, social restrictions, and family life alterations. The stress induced by the public health crisis and its consequences are beginning to be explored. This study examined stress experiences since the pandemic'sonset in work, financial, social, and health domainsamong a large sample of post-9/11, United States military veterans. The sample, who separated from active-duty service or deactivated from active status in a reserve component in 2016, completed an online survey (n = 3180) in 2020. Participants were 70% White non-Hispanic, 81% male, and had an average age of 38 years. Frequencies and descriptive statistics were calculated. Female veterans and veterans of colour reported significantly higher levels of stress across most life domains. The results suggest White, male, post-9/11 veterans may be somewhat protected from COVID-19 stress, but that the pandemic is exacerbatinghealth and social disparities experienced by post-9/11 veterans of colour and female veterans. Supports and comprehensive care, particularly targeted towardsat-risk populations, are likely needed to provide sufficient resources for resiliency during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith R Aronson
- Social Science Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nicole R Morgan
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jessie H Rudi
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kimberly J McCarthy
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniel F Perkins
- Social Science Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology & Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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10
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Adams SW, Layne CM, Contractor AA, Allwood MA, Armour C, Inslicht SS, Maguen S. The Middle-Out Approach to reconceptualizing, assessing, and analyzing traumatic stress reactions. J Trauma Stress 2024; 37:433-447. [PMID: 38049964 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Alternative models of traumatic stress and broader psychopathology have been proposed to address issues of heterogeneity, comorbidity, clinical utility, and equitable representation. However, systematic and practical methods and guidelines to organize and apply these models remain scarce. The Middle-Out Approach is a novel, integrative, contextually informed framework for organizing and applying existing empirical methods to evaluate current and alternative traumatic stress reactions. Rather than beginning to identify traumatic stress reactions from the top-down (i.e., disorder-first approach) or bottom-up (i.e., symptom-first approach), constructs are evaluated from the middle out (i.e., presentation-first approach), unconstrained by higher-order disorders or lower-order diagnostic symptoms. This approach provides innovation over previous methods at multiple levels, including the conceptualization of traumatic stress reactions as well as the type of assessments and data sources used and how they are used in statistical analyses. Conceptualizations prioritize the identification of middle-order phenotypes, representing person-centered clinical presentations, which are informed by the integration of multidimensional, transdiagnostic, and multimodal (e.g., psychosocial, physiological) assessments and/or data sources. Integrated data are then analyzed concurrently using person-centered statistical models to identify precise, discrete, and representative health outcomes within broader heterogeneous samples. Subsequent variable-centered analyses are then used to identify culturally sensitive and contextually informed correlates of phenotypes, their clinical utility, and the differential composition within and between broader traumatic stress reactions. Examples from the moral injury literature are used to illustrate practical applications that may increase clinical utility and the accurate representation of health outcomes for diverse individuals and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane W Adams
- Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA San Francisco Health Care System, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christopher M Layne
- College of Psychology, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | | | - Maureen A Allwood
- Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice-City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Chérie Armour
- School of Psychology, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Sabra S Inslicht
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Mental Health Service, VA San Francisco Health Care System, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Shira Maguen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Mental Health Service, VA San Francisco Health Care System, San Francisco, California, USA
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11
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Dieujuste N, Mekawi Y, Doom JR. Examination of race-based traumatic stress symptom networks in Black adults in the United States: A network analysis. J Trauma Stress 2024; 37:397-409. [PMID: 38054549 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, racism is theorized to exert its negative effects on Black individuals' mental health by triggering a response known as "race-based traumatic stress" (RBTS), a multidimensional construct comprising seven clusters of symptoms that can occur following exposure to race-based traumatic events (e.g., racial discrimination, racist incidents): depression, intrusion, anger, hypervigilance, physical symptoms, (low) self-esteem, and avoidance. However, little is known about which symptoms and clusters are strongest and most influential in the maintenance of RBTS. Network analysis is a powerful tool for understanding the etiology of traumatic stress, but it has not yet been applied to the examination of this construct. The present study aimed to identify the symptoms most central to RBTS and examine associations between symptoms and symptom clusters. Participants (N = 1,037) identified as Black, and lived in the United States (Mage = 45.12 years, range: 18-82 years) and completed the Race-Based Traumatic Stress Symptom Scale-Short Form (RBTSSS-SF). Regularized partial correlation networks were estimated using R/RStudio. The cluster- and item-level networks demonstrated adequate centrality stability, CS = .44. The depression and physical symptoms clusters were the most central nodes in the cluster network. Feelings of meaninglessness, experiencing mental images of the event, and physical trembling were the most central items within the item-level network. These findings offer insights and implications for assessing and treating symptoms of RBTS in Black adults in the United States who are exposed to race-based traumatic events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yara Mekawi
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jenalee R Doom
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
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12
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Motley RO, Walker DT, Willock J, Byansi W. Health Impact of Racism-Based Experiences Among Black African Immigrant Adults in the United States: An Integrative Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024:15248380241253827. [PMID: 38770911 DOI: 10.1177/15248380241253827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Racism-based experiences among Black African immigrants in the United States are a growing concern due to the prevalence of these events and risk for negative health (mental, behavioral, and physical) outcomes. This integrative review appraised published studies (2012-2023) addressing the relationship between racism-based experiences and adverse health for Black African immigrants. Articles were identified using structured search terms in several databases (APA PsycINFO, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science), Google Scholar, and citation mining. A total of fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies found a significant positive association between racism-based experiences and adverse mental (n = 9), behavioral (n = 3), and physical (n = 2) health outcomes. Racism-based experiences appear to have mental, behavioral, and physical health consequences for Black African immigrant adults. Given the growing population of Black African immigrants in the United States, more work is needed to elucidate the relationship between racism-based experiences and negative health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert O Motley
- Boston College School of Social Work, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Danielle T Walker
- Boston College Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Jamelia Willock
- Boston College School of Social Work, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - William Byansi
- Boston College School of Social Work, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
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13
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Gonzalez CJ, Krishnamurthy S, Rollin FG, Siddiqui S, Henry TL, Kiefer M, Wan S, Weerahandi H. Incorporating Anti-racist Principles Throughout the Research Lifecycle: A Position Statement from the Society of General Internal Medicine (SGIM). J Gen Intern Med 2024:10.1007/s11606-024-08770-2. [PMID: 38743167 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-024-08770-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Biomedical research has advanced medicine but also contributed to widening racial and ethnic health inequities. Despite a growing acknowledgment of the need to incorporate anti-racist objectives into research, there remains a need for practical guidance for recognizing and addressing the influence of ingrained practices perpetuating racial harms, particularly for general internists. Through a review of the literature, and informed by the Research Lifecycle Framework, this position statement from the Society of General Internal Medicine presents a conceptual framework suggesting multi-level systemic changes and strategies for researchers to incorporate an anti-racist perspective throughout the research lifecycle. It begins with a clear assertion that race and ethnicity are socio-political constructs that have important consequences on health and health disparities through various forms of racism. Recommendations include leveraging a comprehensive approach to integrate anti-racist principles and acknowledging that racism, not race, drives health inequities. Individual researchers must acknowledge systemic racism's impact on health, engage in self-education to mitigate biases, hire diverse teams, and include historically excluded communities in research. Institutions must provide clear guidelines on the use of race and ethnicity in research, reject stigmatizing language, and invest in systemic commitments to diversity, equity, and anti-racism. National organizations must call for race-conscious research standards and training, and create measures to ensure accountability, establishing standards for race-conscious research for research funding. This position statement emphasizes our collective responsibility to combat systemic racism in research, and urges a transformative shift toward anti-racist practices throughout the research cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Gonzalez
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Sudarshan Krishnamurthy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Francois G Rollin
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sarah Siddiqui
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Tracey L Henry
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Meghan Kiefer
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shaowei Wan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Himali Weerahandi
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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14
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Kahhale I, Farrise K, Das A, McPhee J, Galán CA, Park A. Recognizing the Impact of Racism-Based Traumatic Stress on Youth: Implications for Research and Clinical Practice. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:S0890-8567(24)00242-9. [PMID: 38734405 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2024.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaela Farrise
- University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
| | | | - Jeanne McPhee
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Chardée A Galán
- The Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania
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15
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Simons RL, Ong ML, Lei M, Beach SRH, Zhang Y, Philibert R, Mielke MM. Racial discrimination during middle age predicts higher serum phosphorylated tau and neurofilament light chain levels a decade later: A study of aging black Americans. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:3485-3494. [PMID: 38597292 PMCID: PMC11095429 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent evidence suggests that exposure to the stress of racism may increase the risk of dementia for Black Americans. METHODS The present study used 17 years of data from a sample of 255 Black Americans to investigate the extent to which exposure to racial discrimination predicts subsequent changes in serum Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) biomarkers: serum phosphorylated tau181(p-tau181), neurofilament light (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). We hypothesized that racial discrimination assessed during middle age would predict increases in these serum biomarkers as the participants aged into their 60s. RESULTS Our findings indicate that exposure to various forms of racial discrimination during a person's 40s and early 50s predicts an 11-year increase in both serum p-tau181 and NfL. Racial discrimination was not associated with subsequent levels of GFAP. DISCUSSION These findings suggest that racial discrimination in midlife may contribute to increased AD pathology and neurodegeneration later in life. HIGHLIGHTS A 17-year longitudinal study of Black Americans. Assessments of change in serum p-tau181, neurofilament light, and glial fibrillary acidic protein. Exposure to racial discrimination during middle age predicted increases in p-tau181 and neurofilament light. Education was positively related to both p-tau181 and exposure to racial discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mei Ling Ong
- Center for Family ResearchUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Man‐Kit Lei
- Department of SociologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | | | - Yue Zhang
- Department of SociologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Robert Philibert
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of Iowa School of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Michelle M. Mielke
- Department of Epidemiology and PreventionWake Forest University School of MedicineWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
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16
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Quinn KG, Walsh JL, Johnson A, Edwards T, Takahashi L, Dakin A, Bouacha N, Voisin D. Police Violence Experienced by Black Gay and Bisexual Men: The Effects on HIV Care Engagement and Medication Adherence. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1642-1649. [PMID: 38315300 PMCID: PMC11070282 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04278-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Black men face high rates of police violence, including direct victimization and indirect exposure to or knowledge of harmful policing. This violence can result in death and physical harm, as well as in numerous poor mental health outcomes. There has been little research examining experiences of police violence experienced by Black gay and bisexual men or the effects of police brutality on HIV continuum of care outcomes. To address this important gap, in this exploratory study, we examined the effects of police brutality on engagement in HIV care and adherence to antiretroviral medications. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from 107 Black gay and bisexual men living with HIV. The path analysis showed that men with greater exposure to police violence had increased symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and were more likely to have missed HIV care appointments in the past year. Additionally, there was a significant indirect effect of exposure to police violence on missed medication doses via PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine G Quinn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin Center for AIDS Intervention Research, 2071 N. Summit Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Jennifer L Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin Center for AIDS Intervention Research, 2071 N. Summit Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Anthony Johnson
- School of Social Work, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Travonne Edwards
- School of Child and Youth Care, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lois Takahashi
- Sol Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Dexter Voisin
- School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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17
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Ebubedike N, Callanan M, Oldershaw A. 'The Relentless Nature of Whiteness': Black Psychologists' Experiences of Racial Microaggressions in Cross-Cultural Supervision. Clin Psychol Psychother 2024; 31:e3011. [PMID: 38785413 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.3011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research suggests that cross-cultural supervision can be prone to microaggressions with deleterious effects for ethno-racial minorities. There are currently no known studies examining the impact of racial microaggressions in supervision on qualified psychologists. This study aimed to explore Black psychologists' experiences of microaggressions in supervision with a White supervisor and their impact. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 individuals who had completed clinical or counselling psychology doctoral training. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. RESULTS Three superordinate themes and 12 subthemes were derived from the analysis. The superordinate themes were: 'It's the subtle things', 'It's an ordeal' and 'Surviving Whiteness in psychology'. The findings illustrate the complex nature of racial microaggressions and their profound and lasting impact on individuals. The cumulative impact of these experiences resulted in significant negative psychological outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that there are common microaggressions that recur in supervision. Encountering microaggressions impeded the supervisory relationship, supervision and professional development. Clinical implications include recommendations for including multicultural competency in psychology trainings and ongoing professional development plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngozi Ebubedike
- Salomons Institute of Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University, Tunbridge Wells, UK
| | - Margie Callanan
- Salomons Institute of Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University, Tunbridge Wells, UK
| | - Anna Oldershaw
- Salomons Institute of Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University, Tunbridge Wells, UK
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18
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Elbasheir A, Fulton TM, Choucair KC, Lathan EC, Spivey BN, Guelfo A, Carter SE, Powers A, Fani N. Moral injury, race-related stress and post-traumatic stress disorder in a trauma-exposed Black population. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:326-332. [PMID: 38574596 PMCID: PMC11140589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Race-related stress (RRS) is an unrecognized source of moral injury (MI)-or the emotional and/or spiritual suffering that may emerge after exposure to events that violate deeply held beliefs. Additionally, MI has not been explored as a mechanism of risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in trauma-exposed civilians. We examined relations among exposure to potentially morally injurious events (moral injury exposure, MIE), related distress (moral injury distress, MID), and RRS in Black Americans. Potential indirect associations between RRS and PTSD symptoms via MID were also examined. METHODS Black Americans (n = 228; 90.4% female; Mage = 31.6 years. SDage = 12.8 years) recruited from an ongoing study of trauma completed measures assessing civilian MIE and MID, RRS, and PTSD. Bivariate correlations were conducted with MIE and MID, and mediation analysis with MID, to examine the role of MI in the relationship between RRS and PTSD symptom severity. RESULTS MIE was significantly correlated with cultural (r = 0.27), individual (r = 0.29), and institutional (r = 0.25) RRS; MID also correlated with cultural (r = 0.31), individual (r = 0.31), and institutional (r = 0.26) RRS (ps < 0.001). We found an indirect effect of RRS on PTSD symptoms via MID (β = 0.10, p < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS All types of RRS were associated with facets of MI, which mediated the relationship between RRS and current PTSD symptoms. MI may be a potential mechanism through which RRS increases the risk for PTSD in Black individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Elbasheir
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA; Neuroscience PhD Program, Emory University, USA
| | - Travis M Fulton
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA; Molecular and Systems Pharmacology PhD Program, Emory University, USA
| | - Khaled C Choucair
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | - Emma C Lathan
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | | | - Alfonsina Guelfo
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | | | - Abigail Powers
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | - Negar Fani
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA.
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19
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Torres L, Geier TJ, Tomas CW, Bird CM, Timmer-Murillo S, Larson CL, deRoon-Cassini TA. Racial discrimination increases the risk for nonremitting posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in traumatically injured Black individuals living in the United States. J Trauma Stress 2024. [PMID: 38650107 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Traumatic, life-threatening events are experienced commonly among the general U.S. population, yet Black individuals in the United States (i.e., Black Americans) exhibit higher prevalence rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more severe symptoms than other populations. Although empirical research has noted a range of symptom patterns that follow traumatic injury, minimal work has examined the role of racial discrimination in relation to PTSD symptom trajectories. The current study assessed racial discrimination and PTSD symptom trajectories at 6 months postinjury across two separate samples of traumatically injured Black Americans (i.e. emergency department (ED)-discharged and hospitalized). Identified PTSD symptom trajectories largely reflect those previously reported (i.e., ED: nonremitting, moderate, remitting, and resilient; hospitalized: nonremitting, delayed, and resilient), although the resilient trajectory was less represented than expected given past research (ED: 55.8%, n = 62; hospitalized: 46.9%, n = 38). Finally, higher racial discrimination was associated with nonremitting, ED: relative risk ratio (RR) = 1.32, hospitalized: RR = 1.23; moderate, ED: RR = 1.18; and delayed, hospitalized: RR = 1.26, PTSD symptom trajectories. Overall, the current findings not only emphasize the inimical effects of racial discrimination but also demonstrate the unique ways in which race-related negative events can impact PTSD symptom levels and recovery across time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Torres
- Department of Psychology, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Timothy J Geier
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Carissa W Tomas
- Institute for Health and Equity, Division of Epidemiology and Social Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Claire M Bird
- Baylor Scott and White Research Institute, Trauma Research Consortium, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sydney Timmer-Murillo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Christine L Larson
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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20
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Brown KL, Bettencourt AF, Hines AL, Cooper LA, Gudzune KA. Association Between Maladaptive Eating Behaviors Among Black Women and Vicarious Racial Discrimination Following a High-Profile Event. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-01994-2. [PMID: 38578573 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-01994-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evidence suggests that racial discrimination causes stress among non-Hispanic Black women, and some Black women may cope with exposure to vicarious racial discrimination by engaging in maladaptive eating behaviors. METHODS We examined eating behaviors among Black women (N = 254) before and after Freddie Gray's death while in police custody. Maladaptive eating behaviors were assessed using the three-factor eating questionnaire. Our independent variables included the following: (1) time period and (2) geographic proximity to the event. Three two-way analysis of covariance tests were conducted to assess potential effects of geographic proximity (close, distant), time period in relation to unrest (before, after unrest), and their interaction on emotional eating, uncontrolled eating, and cognitive restraint controlling for participant age. RESULTS There was a statistically significant main effect of proximity to the unrest on emotional eating, F (1, 252) = 5.64, p = .018, and partial η2 = .022 such that women living in close geographic proximity to the unrest reported higher mean levels of emotional eating as compared to those living more distant to the unrest. There was also a borderline statistically significant interaction between geographic proximity and time period on cognitive restraint, F (1, 252) = 3.89, p = .050, and partial η2 = .015. CONCLUSION Our study found a relationship between vicarious racial discrimination and maladaptive eating behaviors among Black women. Future work should examine stress related to vicarious racial discrimination and maladaptive eating behaviors longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristal Lyn Brown
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Creative Arts Therapies, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Amie F Bettencourt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anika L Hines
- Department of Health Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Population Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Lisa A Cooper
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kimberly A Gudzune
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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21
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Niemi L, Washington N, Workman C, Arcila-Valenzuela M, De Brigard F. The emotional impact of baseless discrediting of knowledge: An empirical investigation of epistemic injustice. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2024; 244:104157. [PMID: 38354565 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104157] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
According to theoretical work on epistemic injustice, baseless discrediting of the knowledge of people with marginalized social identities is a central driver of prejudice and discrimination. Discrediting of knowledge may sometimes be subtle, but it is pernicious, inducing chronic stress and coping strategies such as emotional avoidance. In this research, we sought to deepen the understanding of epistemic injustice's impact by examining emotional responses to being discredited and assessing if marginalized social group membership predicts these responses. We conducted a novel series of three experiments (Total N = 1690) in which participants (1) shared their factual knowledge about how a game worked or their personal feelings about the game; (2) received discrediting feedback (invalidating remarks), validating feedback (affirming remarks), or insulting feedback (general negative social evaluation); and then (3) reported their affect. In all three studies, on average, affective responses to discrediting feedback were less negative than to insulting feedback, and more negative than to validating feedback. Participants who shared their knowledge reported more negative affect after discrediting feedback than participants who shared their feelings. There were consistent individual differences, including a twice-replicated finding of reduced negative affect after receiving discrediting and insulting feedback for Black men compared to White men and women and Black women. Black men's race-based traumatic symptom scores predicted their affective responses to discrediting and insulting feedback, suggesting that experience with discrimination contributed to the emotional processing of a key aspect of epistemic injustice: remarks conveying baseless discrediting of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Niemi
- Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America.
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22
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Kiles TM, Nonyel NP, Higgins M, Campbell HE. White coats, Black lives-racial trauma in Black pharmacists. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:450-456. [PMID: 38143040 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Race-based traumatic stress, or racial trauma, can negatively impact the health and wellbeing of Black health professionals. However, the effects of racial trauma among Black pharmacists have not been thoroughly explored. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to explore Black pharmacist experiences of race-based traumatic stress and its effects in the workplace. METHODS This qualitative study utilized focus groups among a convenience sample of Black pharmacist attendees of a national convention for an organization dedicated to serving underserved communities and minoritized pharmacy professionals. The data were analyzed with inductive coding and thematic analysis as proposed by Braun and Clark. RESULTS Three focus groups were conducted with a total of 22 participants. The majority of participants were female (77%), and the average age of the participants was 48.3 years old. Three themes related to racial trauma were identified. The participants described racial trauma as an ever-present phenomenon, tension with coworkers and institutions, and internal and external structures of support. The Black pharmacists in this study provided context and recommendations for employers to support their wellbeing. CONCLUSIONS An awareness of the hidden wounds that Black pharmacists carry with them to work every day is an important factor in creating diverse and inclusive workplaces. The results of this study give Black pharmacists a voice and a chance to share with colleagues their distinct realities. Employers and institutions should assess individual needs and implement strategies to support Black pharmacists in creating more inclusive work and professional environments.
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23
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Francois S, Blakey J, Stevenson R, Walker T, Davis C. Navigating COVID-19 and racial trauma as a Black student at predominantly White institutions. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 73:66-77. [PMID: 37079437 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12668] [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: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Black students at predominantly White institutions (PWIs) contend with racial microaggressions that can lead to negative mental health and academic outcomes. The physical and mental health consequences of the novel coronavirus pandemic are well-known. What remains unknown is how targeted racial hate during a pandemic might have a compounded effect on Black essential workers. The current study examines how future essential workers in helping professions cope with dual crises as they navigate mostly White universities. Study participants were Black university students attending PWIs in the United States enrolled in social work, public health, or psychology programs during the 2020-2021 academic year. Participants completed an online survey that measured racial microaggressions, COVID distress, sense of belonging, engagement in activism, and well-being. Hierarchical regression models revealed COVID distress predicted poorer well-being. Also, COVID distress interacted with racial microaggressions to predict well-being. Findings have implications for developing decolonized learning communities with a liberation pedagogy in community psychology and other helping professions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joan Blakey
- School of Social Work, University of Minnesota
| | | | | | - Curtis Davis
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama
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24
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Krammer T, Saase S, Berth H, Kilian C. [Discrimination-Sensitive Psychotherapy: How High Is The Privilege Awareness Among Psychotherapists?]. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2024; 74:120-128. [PMID: 38552618 DOI: 10.1055/a-2244-7468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Discrimination can have a negative impact on mental health and thus can play a crucial role in the context of psychotherapy. This paper outlines the potentials and the relevance of an (intersectional) privilege awareness of psychotherapists for a discrimination-sensitive psychotherapy. The aim of this study was to assess the privilege awareness of psychotherapists in Germany for the first time as well as its thematization in the training of psychotherapists. In addition, the connection between belonging to a marginalized group and the privilege awareness was investigated. METHODS 270 psychotherapists (in training) based in Germany participated in an online survey (2022). Privilege awareness was assessed with an adapted version of the Awareness of Privilege and Oppression Scale-2, translated into German, regarding the following axes of discrimination: heterosexism, classism, and racism. Three self-written items additionally surveyed the thematization of discrimination and privilege in psychotherapy training. The relationship between belonging to a marginalized group and privilege awareness was examined using linear regression analysis. RESULTS Nearly 65% (N=270) of participants felt unprepared or somewhat unprepared to deal with patients' experiences of discrimination, with approximately 40% (N=270) indicating that discrimination was not addressed in training. Privilege was addressed much less frequently. Belonging to a marginalized group was associated with higher privilege awareness (B=0,47, 95%-confidence interval: 0,27-0,67, F(2, 267)=15,41, p<0,001). CONCLUSION There is a need to include the impact of discrimination and privilege on mental health and the therapeutic relationship as an integral part of psychotherapy training to enhance its quality as well as the quality of future psychotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Krammer
- Institut für Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Sabrina Saase
- Deparment für Psychologie, Sigmund Freud PrivatUniversität - Berlin
| | - Hendrik Berth
- Psychosoziale Medizin und Entwicklungsneurowissenschaften, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden
| | - Carolin Kilian
- Institute of Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
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25
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Rogers RC, Tinsley TM. Black Pastors' Experiences of Occupational and Life Stress During COVID-19 in the USA. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024; 63:685-703. [PMID: 37648951 PMCID: PMC10861691 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01901-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to identify the occupational stressors Black pastors experience, who serve in Black Church denominations and Black nondenominational churches. A total of 218 pastors completed the survey out of 2786 for a response rate of 10.1%. Black pastors identified their most challenging stressors as member dynamics, financial stress, leading a church to fulfill its mission, and pastor's workload. Black women pastors faced the additional stressor of having their pastoral leadership challenged by male congregants. Black pastors faced more stressors during the COVID-19 pandemic including church closures, transitioning to virtual services, unexpected deaths, and an increased workload with 72.5% of pastors reporting moderate to extreme stress levels. Approximately 77% of pastors acknowledged experiencing from moderate to extreme stress levels during social protests for the deaths of Black people by law enforcement. Black pastors further acknowledged experiencing an additional three to six life stressors outside of their pastoral roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Rogers
- Department of Counseling, Montclair State University, PO Box 1532, Morristown, NJ, 07962-1532, USA.
- Church of God in Christ, Morristown, NJ, USA.
| | - Taunya M Tinsley
- Pillar College, Newark, NJ, USA
- Transitions Counseling Services, LLC, 63 Chestnut Road, Suite 10, Paoli, PA, 19301, USA
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26
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Lu Y, Baumler E, Wood L, Le VD, Guillot-Wright SP, Temple JR. Racial Discrimination and Interpersonal Violence in Asian American Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:246-251. [PMID: 37978955 PMCID: PMC10843767 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.09.016] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Racial discrimination targeting Asians in the United States has increased sharply since the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a well-established link with mental/physical health outcomes, little is known about how racial discrimination relates to interpersonal violence, particularly in adolescents. To address this gap in knowledge, we examined cross-sectional and longitudinal (1-year follow-up) associations between racial discrimination and interpersonal violence perpetration and victimization in Asian American adolescents in a large US city. METHODS Data from Waves 3 (2020) and 4 (2021) of a randomized clinical trial of a school-based violence prevention program were examined. We limited our sample to participants who identified as Asian American (n = 344; 48.3% female; Meanage = 14.6 years at Wave 3). RESULTS At Wave 3, 26.5% of the adolescents reported experiencing some form of racial discrimination, including 18.3% experiencing verbal harassment due to race and 16.0% reporting inequitable treatment due to race. Relative to their nonvictimized counterparts, adolescents who experienced racial discrimination were more likely to report being a victim of bullying and teen dating violence cross-sectionally and being a bullying victim longitudinally. Moreover, those who experienced racial discrimination reported more bullying and teen dating violence perpetration concurrently, as well as more dating violence perpetration 1 year later. DISCUSSION In the understudied population of Asian American adolescents, we found that experiencing racial discrimination contributes to both interpersonal violence victimization and perpetration. Youth violence prevention could include strategies addressing racial discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Lu
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma.
| | - Elizabeth Baumler
- School of Nursing and Center for Violence Prevention, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Leila Wood
- School of Nursing and Center for Violence Prevention, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Vi D Le
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shannon P Guillot-Wright
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeff R Temple
- School of Nursing and Center for Violence Prevention, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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27
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Bird CM, Kate Webb E, Cole SW, Tomas CW, Knight JM, Timmer-Murillo SC, Larson CL, deRoon-Cassini TA, Torres L. Experiences of racial discrimination and adverse gene expression among black individuals in a level 1 trauma center sample. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:229-236. [PMID: 38070623 PMCID: PMC10872243 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 40 % of individuals who sustain traumatic injuries are at risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the conditional risk for developing PTSD is even higher for Black individuals. Exposure to racial discrimination, including at both interpersonal and structural levels, helps explain this health inequity. Yet, the relationship between racial discrimination and biological processes in the context of traumatic injury has yet to be fully explored. The current study examined whether racial discrimination is associated with a cumulative measure of biological stress, the gene expression profile conserved transcriptional response to adversity (CTRA), in Black trauma survivors. Two-weeks (T1) and six-months (T2) post-injury, Black participants (N = 94) provided a blood specimen and completed assessments of lifetime racial discrimination and PTSD symptoms. Mixed effect linear models evaluated the relationship between change in CTRA gene expression and racial discrimination while adjusting for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking history, heavy alcohol use history, and trauma-related variables (mechanism of injury, lifetime trauma). Results revealed that for individuals exposed to higher levels of lifetime racial discrimination, CTRA significantly increased between T1 and T2. Conversely, CTRA did not increase significantly over time in individuals exposed to lower levels of lifetime racial discrimination. Thus, racial discrimination appeared to lead to a more sensitized biological profile which was further amplified by the effects of a recent traumatic injury. These findings replicate and extend previous research elucidating the processes by which racial discrimination targets biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E Kate Webb
- McLean Hospital, Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Belmont, MA USA; Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA USA
| | - Steven W Cole
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Carissa W Tomas
- Division of Epidemiology and Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, WI, USA
| | - Jennifer M Knight
- Department of Trauma and Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, WI, USA
| | | | - Christine L Larson
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Lucas Torres
- Department of Psychology, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Johnson VE, Courtney K, Chng K. Race-based Traumatic Stress Predicts Risky Drinking, Over and Above Negative Affect, and Non-race-related Trauma Symptoms in Racial/Ethnic Minority Female College Students. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:371-381. [PMID: 36859740 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01525-5] [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: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Alcohol misuse remains a major concern in college student populations and rates of risky and problematic drinking are specifically on the rise for women. One important factor that has been shown to be positively associated with substance use/misuse for women from historically marginalized or minoritized racial/ethnic backgrounds is exposure to racial discrimination and possible resulting traumatic stress reactions. Questions remain about the relationship between race-based traumatic stress and risky drinking particularly among diverse female college students who are at greater risk due to their marginalized status in their racial/ethnic and gender groups. DESIGN The current study examined race-based traumatic stress as a unique predictor of risky drinking when controlling for negative affectivity and general trauma symptoms, additional risk factors for risky drinking in women. RESULTS Hierarchical linear regressions revealed that race-based traumatic stress made a significant and unique contribution to the amount of variance in risky drinking, above negative affectivity, and general trauma symptoms. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the importance of considering experiences of racism as risk factors in substance use prevention and intervention, specifically for female college students from marginalized or minoritized racial/ethnic backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica E Johnson
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, 524 West 59th Street, 10.65.19 New Building, NY, 10019, New York, USA.
| | - Kellie Courtney
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, 524 West 59th Street, 10.65.19 New Building, NY, 10019, New York, USA
| | - Kobi Chng
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, 524 West 59th Street, 10.65.19 New Building, NY, 10019, New York, USA
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Marx BP, Hall-Clark B, Friedman MJ, Holtzheimer P, Schnurr PP. The PTSD Criterion A debate: A brief history, current status, and recommendations for moving forward. J Trauma Stress 2024; 37:5-15. [PMID: 38123526 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Criterion A, also known as the "stressor criterion," has been a major source of debate ever since PTSD was added to the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1980. Since then, the traumatic stress field has held an ongoing debate about how to best define Criterion A and the events that it covers. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent race-based incidents, the Criterion A debate has been reinvigorated. In this paper, we review briefly the history of Criterion A and changes in its language across different editions of the DSM. We then describe the four main positions held by scholars involved in the Criterion A debate and carefully examine the support for those positions. We conclude by offering recommendations for moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Marx
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brittany Hall-Clark
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
| | - Matthew J Friedman
- National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, USA
| | - Paul Holtzheimer
- National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, USA
| | - Paula P Schnurr
- National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, USA
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Atunah-Jay SJ, Phelan S, Anderson AT, Behl S, McTate EA, Gorfine MC, Sood G, Taylor KK, Brockman J, Salinas M, Biggs BK, Wieland ML, Asiedu GB. Promoting Safe and Supportive Health Care Spaces for Youth Experiencing Racism. Acad Pediatr 2024:S1876-2859(24)00009-3. [PMID: 38244857 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This qualitative study applies a community-based participatory research approach to elicit formative data on pediatric patient experiences of racism in the health care setting and to explore clinic-based opportunities for supporting pediatric patients experiencing racism. METHODS The study is situated within the outpatient practice of a large tertiary academic medical center in a midsize Midwestern city. Community partners were involved in all aspects of the research, including research protocol design, recruitment, data analysis, community dissemination, and manuscript preparation. Participants were youth between 11 and 18 years, in middle or high school, self-identifying as a person of color, Latinx or Indigenous who answered yes to the question "have you ever experienced race-related prejudice and discrimination?" Parent/guardians of youth meeting inclusion criteria participated in separate focus groups. Data were analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. RESULTS Major findings were divided into 2 categories: 1) racism-related experiences in the health care setting; and 2) patient and parent/guardian recommendations to support pediatric patients experiencing racism. Among health care setting experiences, primary emerging themes included racism experienced in the health care setting, patient-clinician communication around racism, patient-clinician concordance, and high-quality clinical care. Recommendations were presented within the 4 domains of racism: intrapersonal, interpersonal, structural, and institutional. CONCLUSIONS Racism experiences worsen child biological, psychological, and behavioral functioning, yet research is lacking on how health care professionals may best support pediatric patients experiencing racism. Study findings suggest opportunities for providing safer and more supportive health care spaces for youth experiencing racism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Atunah-Jay
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine (SJ Atunah-Jay), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minn.
| | - Sean Phelan
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research (S Phelan and GB Asiedu), Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Rochester, Minn
| | - Ashaunta T Anderson
- Department of Pediatrics (AT Anderson), Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
| | - Supriya Behl
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine (S Behl), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Emily A McTate
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine (EA McTate), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minn; Department of Psychology (EA McTate and BK Biggs), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minn
| | - Mary Conboy Gorfine
- Rochester-Olmsted Youth Commission and Rochester Community Engaged Research Advisory Board (Mayo Clinic) (MC Gorfine), Minn
| | - Gauri Sood
- Rochester-Olmsted Youth Commission (G Sood and KK Taylor), Minn
| | - Kashanti K Taylor
- Rochester-Olmsted Youth Commission (G Sood and KK Taylor), Minn; Howard University (KK Taylor), Washington, DC
| | - Jack Brockman
- Pediatric Advisory Board (J Brockman), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Manisha Salinas
- Center for Health Equity and Community Engagement Research (M Salinas), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, Fla
| | - Bridget K Biggs
- Department of Psychology (EA McTate and BK Biggs), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minn
| | - Mark L Wieland
- Division of Community Internal Medicine (ML Wieland), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minn
| | - Gladys B Asiedu
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research (S Phelan and GB Asiedu), Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Rochester, Minn
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Polanco-Roman L, Ebrahimi CT, Satinsky EN, Benau EM, Martins Lanes A, Iyer M, Galán CA. Racism-Related Experiences and Traumatic Stress Symptoms in Ethnoracially Minoritized Youth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38175945 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2023.2292042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite growing evidence demonstrating the association between racial and ethnic discrimination and traumatic stress symptoms in adult populations, the research among youth remains sparse. Drawing upon race-based traumatic stress models, and following the PRISMA-2020 guidelines, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify the state of the empirical evidence in the association between racism-related experiences and traumatic stress symptoms in ethnoracially minoritized youth. METHOD Scientific databases were searched to identify articles with ethnoracially minoritized youth participants under age 18 years old that examined the association between racial and/or ethnic discrimination and traumatic stress symptoms. RESULTS A total of 18 articles comprising 16 studies (N = 4,825 participants) met inclusion criteria. Studies were largely cross-sectional, used nonrandom sampling strategies, focused on Black and Latinx youth, and were conducted in the United States. Furthermore, most studies were theoretically grounded and operationalized racism-related experiences as frequency of direct, personal, everyday discrimination. Few studies examined other dimensions of racism-related experiences. The meta-analysis demonstrated a significant positive association with a medium effect size, rpooled = .356, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.27, 0.44, between racism-related experiences and traumatic stress symptoms. No evidence of moderation by age, sex/gender, race/ethnicity, country, or recruitment setting was detected. CONCLUSION Racism-related experiences may confer risk for traumatic stress symptoms in ethnoracially minoritized youth. Attending to racism-related experiences is critical to improve the cultural responsiveness of trauma-informed services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mythili Iyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California
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Fullilove MT, Dix E, Hankerson SH, Lassiter J, Jordan A. Systems that promote mental health in the teeth of oppression. Lancet Psychiatry 2024; 11:65-74. [PMID: 38101874 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(23)00344-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Emotional distress can disproportionately disable individuals from minoritized groups, such as Black Americans, due to multiple intersecting factors. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive, culturally sensitive approach to mental health care that promotes inclusivity, accessibility, and representation within the field, to foster empowerment and resilience among minoritized communities. Given the weight of negative factors that can lead to psychological distress and mental illness, the wellness of Black Americans and how they support their mental health is important to acknowledge. In this Series paper, we propose that Black Americans have developed systems for managing many of these threats to their survival and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ebony Dix
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Ayana Jordan
- NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Fulton T, Lathan EC, Karkare MC, Guelfo A, Eghbalzad L, Ahluwalia V, Ely TD, Turner JA, Turner MD, Currier JM, Mekawi Y, Fani N. Civilian Moral Injury and Amygdala Functional Connectivity During Attention to Threat. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2024; 9:112-120. [PMID: 37487958 PMCID: PMC10803642 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2023.07.006] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moral injury references emotional and spiritual/existential suffering that may emerge following psychological trauma. Despite being linked to adverse mental health outcomes, little is known about the neurophysiological mechanisms of this phenomenon. In this study, we examined neural correlates of moral injury exposure and distress using the Moral Injury Exposure and Symptom Scale for Civilians. We also examined potential moderation of these effects by race (Black vs. White individuals) given the likely intersection of race-related stress with moral injury. METHODS Forty-eight adults ages 18 to 65 years (mean age = 30.56, SD = 11.93) completed the Moral Injury Exposure and Symptom Scale for Civilians and an affective attentional control measure, the affective Stroop task (AS), during functional magnetic resonance imaging; the AS includes presentation of threat-relevant and neutral distractor stimuli. Voxelwise functional connectivity of the bilateral amygdala was examined in response to threat-relevant versus neutral AS distractor trials. RESULTS Functional connectivity between the right amygdala and left postcentral gyrus/primary somatosensory cortex was positively correlated with the Moral Injury Exposure and Symptom Scale for Civilians exposure score (voxelwise p < .001, cluster false discovery rate-corrected p < .05) in response to threat versus neutral AS distractor trials. Follow-up analyses revealed significant effects of race; Black but not White participants demonstrated this significant pattern of amygdala-left somatosensory cortex connectivity. CONCLUSIONS Increased exposure to potentially morally injurious events may lead to emotion-somatosensory pathway disruptions during attention to threat-relevant stimuli. These effects may be most potent for individuals who have experienced multilayered exposure to morally injurious events, including racial trauma. Moral injury appears to have a distinct neurobiological signature that involves abnormalities in connectivity of emotion-somatosensory paths, which may be amplified by race-related stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis Fulton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Molecular and Systems Pharmacology PhD Program, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emma C Lathan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Maya C Karkare
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Alfonsina Guelfo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Leyla Eghbalzad
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Vishwadeep Ahluwalia
- Center for Advanced Brain Imaging, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Timothy D Ely
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | - Joseph M Currier
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Yara Mekawi
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Negar Fani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
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Gabarrell-Pascuet A, Lloret-Pineda A, Franch-Roca M, Mellor-Marsa B, Alos-Belenguer MDC, He Y, Hafi-Elmokhtari RE, Villalobos F, Bayes-Marin I, Aparicio Pareja L, Álvarez Bobo O, Espinal Cabezas M, Osorio Y, Haro JM, Cristóbal-Narvaez P. Impact of perceived discrimination and coping strategies on well-being and mental health in newly-arrived migrants in Spain. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294295. [PMID: 38134016 PMCID: PMC10745147 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore how perceived discrimination impacts the emotional well-being and mental health of newly-arrived migrants in Spain; and to identify the coping strategies and behavioral changes used to deal with perceived discrimination. DESIGN 102 individual audio-recorded in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed through content analysis. RESULTS Negative emotions related to perceived discrimination included disgust, sadness, fear, loneliness, humiliation, sense of injustice, rage, feeling undervalued or vulnerable, and mixed emotions. Change in behaviors due to perceived discrimination comprised westernization or cultural assimilation, creating a good image, avoiding going out or leaving alone, hypervigilance, stop participating in politics, self-sufficiency, a positive adaptation, and paradoxically, becoming an oppressor. The identified coping strategies to deal with perceived discrimination were ignoring or not responding, isolation, self-medication, engagement in intellectual activities, leisure and sport, talking or insulting the oppressor, denouncement, physical fight or revenge, seeking comfort, increasing solidarity with others, crying, or using humor. Discrimination-related stress and related mental health problems were conveyed, as challenges related to substance abuse and addictive behaviors, mood, and anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Findings establish initial evidence of the great impact of perceived discrimination on the health, emotional well-being, and behavior of newly-arrived migrants in Spain, alerting to the need for targeted policies and services to address the effects of discrimination in this population. Further research is needed to explore more closely the causes and effects of perceived discrimination on mental health, to develop more targeted and effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aina Gabarrell-Pascuet
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Amanda Lloret-Pineda
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Franch-Roca
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Blanca Mellor-Marsa
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Yuelu He
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rachid El Hafi-Elmokhtari
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Felipe Villalobos
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l’Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ivet Bayes-Marin
- Center for Biomedical Research on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés, Spain
| | - Lola Aparicio Pareja
- Servicio de Atención a la Migración en Salud Mental (SATMI), Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar Álvarez Bobo
- Servicio de Atención a la Migración en Salud Mental (SATMI), Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercedes Espinal Cabezas
- Servicio de Atención a la Migración en Salud Mental (SATMI), Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yolanda Osorio
- Servicio de Atención a la Migración en Salud Mental (SATMI), Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- Equip Salut Mental Sense Sostre (ESMES), Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Haro
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Cristóbal-Narvaez
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
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Dolcini-Catania LG, DeVlieger SE, Cyranowski JM. Clinical Trainee Perspectives on the Implementation of Trauma-Focused Training. Am J Psychother 2023; 76:137-143. [PMID: 37703116 DOI: 10.1176/appi.psychotherapy.20220047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the high prevalence of trauma exposure in the United States and calls for the implementation of trauma-focused psychotherapy training, scant opportunities exist for such training in graduate clinical psychology programs. This study aimed to guide the implementation of trauma-focused psychotherapy training in graduate curricula by examining clinical trainees' perspectives on their current training and desired features for trauma-specific learning environments. The absence of research that centers trainee voices is notable; therefore, this study specifically focuses on trainee perspectives on implementation. METHODS The New Haven competencies, developed by the American Psychological Association to support efforts to improve trauma-specific training, were used as a framework to guide the development of a mixed-methods survey. Current doctoral students (N=18) in one clinical psychology program completed the survey. RESULTS Trainees overwhelmingly perceived the competencies to be relevant to their psychological assessment and therapy training and to their professional goals but noted a general lack of available trauma-specific training. Nearly all trainees believed that trauma-specific training should be required and expressed varied opinions regarding how requirements should be structured. Important features of a safe and supportive learning environment were reported to include coconstructed norms, choice and flexibility for participation, and integrated wellness practices. Further, instructors' trauma awareness, cultural humility, and responsiveness to students' experiences were emphasized by trainees as important. CONCLUSIONS Effective implementation of trauma-specific psychotherapy training should be guided by ongoing dialogue between trainees and training stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano G Dolcini-Catania
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Dolcini-Catania, Cyranowski); Department of Teaching and Learning, New York University-Steinhardt, New York City (DeVlieger)
| | - Shana E DeVlieger
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Dolcini-Catania, Cyranowski); Department of Teaching and Learning, New York University-Steinhardt, New York City (DeVlieger)
| | - Jill M Cyranowski
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Dolcini-Catania, Cyranowski); Department of Teaching and Learning, New York University-Steinhardt, New York City (DeVlieger)
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Dickens H, Bruehl S, Rao U, Myers H, Goodin B, Huber FA, Nag S, Carter C, Karlson C, Kinney KL, Morris MC. Cognitive-Affective-Behavioral Pathways Linking Adversity and Discrimination to Daily Pain in African-American Adults. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:2718-2730. [PMID: 36352344 PMCID: PMC10166769 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01449-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The tendency to ruminate, magnify, and experience helplessness in the face of pain - known as pain catastrophizing - is a strong predictor of pain outcomes and is associated with adversity. The ability to maintain functioning despite adversity - referred to as resilience - also influences pain outcomes. Understanding the extent to which pain catastrophizing and resilience influence relations between adversity and daily pain in healthy African-American adults could improve pain risk assessment and mitigate racial disparities in the transition from acute to chronic pain. This study included 160 African-American adults (98 women). Outcome measures included daily pain intensity (sensory, affective) and pain impact on daily function (pain interference). Adversity measures included childhood trauma exposure, family adversity, chronic burden from recent stressors, and ongoing perceived stress. A measure of lifetime racial discrimination was also included. Composite scores were created to capture early-life adversity (childhood trauma, family adversity) versus recent-life adversity (perceived stress, chronic burden). Increased pain catastrophizing was correlated with increased adversity (early and recent), racial discrimination, pain intensity, and pain interference. Decreased pain resilience was correlated with increased recent-life adversity (not early-life adversity or racial discrimination) and correlated with increased pain intensity (not pain-related interference). Bootstrapped multiple mediation models revealed that relationships between all adversity/discrimination and pain outcomes were mediated by pain catastrophizing. Pain resilience, however, was not a significant mediator in these models. These findings highlight opportunities for early interventions to reduce cognitive-affective-behavioral risk factors for persisting daily pain among African-American adults with greater adversity exposure by targeting pain catastrophizing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Dickens
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Stephen Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Uma Rao
- Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior and Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of CA - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, CA, USA
| | - Hector Myers
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Burel Goodin
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Felicitas A Huber
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Subodh Nag
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Neuroscience & Pharmacology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Chelsea Carter
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Neuroscience & Pharmacology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Cynthia Karlson
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Hematology/Oncology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Kerry L Kinney
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Matthew C Morris
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA.
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Daniels KP, D Thomas M, Chae DH, Allen AM. Black Mothers' Concern for Their Children as a Measure of Vicarious Racism-Related Vigilance and Allostatic Load. JOURNAL OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 64:520-536. [PMID: 37332176 DOI: 10.1177/00221465231175942] [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] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between allostatic load and a novel form of altruistic racism-related fear, or concern for how racism might harm another, which we term vicarious racism-related vigilance. Using a subsample of Black mothers from the African American Women's Heart & Health Study (N = 140), which includes detailed health and survey data on a community sample of Black women in the San Francisco Bay Area, this study investigates the relationship between Black mothers' experiences with racism-related vigilance as it relates to their children and allostatic load-a multisystem metric of underlying health across multiple biological systems. Findings indicate that vicarious racism-related vigilance was positively associated with allostatic load (i.e., worse health). Findings highlight the salience of vicarious racism-related vigilance for the health of Black mothers, underscoring how intersections between race, gender, and parenthood result in susceptibility to unique forms of health-harming stress.
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Jones SCT, Simon CB, Yadeta K, Patterson A, Anderson RE. When resilience is not enough: Imagining novel approaches to supporting Black youth navigating racism. Dev Psychopathol 2023; 35:2132-2140. [PMID: 37641953 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579423000986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The narrative surrounding the impact racism has had on the well-being of Black youth has shifted across sociocultural and historical context. Early discourse around these topics were problem-saturated, focusing on deficits "within" Black youth. Over time, an important narrative shift occurred: greater attention was paid to the inherent assets of Black youth, their families, and communities, including how racial-ethnic protective factors such as racial socialization afforded them resilience. What resulted was decades of research seeking to understand the mechanisms that allow Black youth to bounce back in spite of racism-related adversity. Notwithstanding the viable practice and policy implications that have emerged from such inquiry, at what point does our focus on the resilience of Black youth - whether individual or multisystemic - fall short? It is with this question in mind that this paper challenges those committed to the optimal development of Black youth to consider yet another narrative shift: one that stands upon the legacy of cultural ecological frameworks and the seminal models underlying resilience research, and calls us toward not supporting Black youth's adaptation to racism, but toward collective efforts to transform our approach, pushing back against the perniciousness of racism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn C T Jones
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VR, USA
| | - Carlisa B Simon
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Kenna Yadeta
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VR, USA
| | - Akilah Patterson
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Riana E Anderson
- Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Martinez JH, Tahirkheli NN, Roemer L, Ying A, Abdullah T. Coping with racial discrimination: a preliminary examination of coping strategies in college students at a University in Northeastern U.S. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-8. [PMID: 38015172 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2283737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the associations between coping strategies in response to racism and distress symptoms. SAMPLE One hundred forty-four racially minoritized students at a northeastern university completed an online survey. METHODS Participants completed self-report active and emotion-focused coping and distress symptom (i.e., depression and anxiety) measures. Hierarchical regressions were conducted to test: 1) correlations between coping strategies in response to racism and distress symptoms, and 2) whether emotional acceptance moderates the association between active coping in response to racism and distress symptoms. RESULTS Students' self-compassionate responses to their emotional reactions to discrimination uniquely predicted less distress. In contrast, reports of using resistance and education in response to discrimination were positively correlated with distress symptoms; however, these associations were no longer significant when accounting for emotional acceptance. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that emotional acceptance coping may be associated with lower distress symptoms. Active coping was associated with increased distress symptoms, except when accounting for emotional acceptance coping.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Noor N Tahirkheli
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lizabeth Roemer
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna Ying
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tahirah Abdullah
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Morris MC, Moradi H, Aslani M, Sims M, Schlundt D, Kouros CD, Goodin B, Lim C, Kinney K. Predicting incident cardiovascular disease among African-American adults: A deep learning approach to evaluate social determinants of health in the Jackson heart study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294050. [PMID: 37948388 PMCID: PMC10637695 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study sought to leverage machine learning approaches to determine whether social determinants of health improve prediction of incident cardiovascular disease (CVD). Participants in the Jackson Heart study with no history of CVD at baseline were followed over a 10-year period to determine first CVD events (i.e., coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure). Three modeling algorithms (i.e., Deep Neural Network, Random Survival Forest, Penalized Cox Proportional Hazards) were used to evaluate three feature sets (i.e., demographics and standard/biobehavioral CVD risk factors [FS1], FS1 combined with psychosocial and socioeconomic CVD risk factors [FS2], and FS2 combined with environmental features [FS3]) as predictors of 10-year CVD risk. Contrary to hypothesis, overall predictive accuracy did not improve when adding social determinants of health. However, social determinants of health comprised eight of the top 15 predictors of first CVD events. The social determinates of health indicators included four socioeconomic factors (insurance status and types), one psychosocial factor (discrimination burden), and three environmental factors (density of outdoor physical activity resources, including instructional and water activities; modified retail food environment index excluding alcohol; and favorable food stores). Findings suggest that whereas understanding biological determinants may identify who is currently at risk for developing CVD and in need of secondary prevention, understanding upstream social determinants of CVD risk could guide primary prevention efforts by identifying where and how policy and community-level interventions could be targeted to facilitate changes in individual health behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C. Morris
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Hamidreza Moradi
- Department of Data Science, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, University of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Maryam Aslani
- Department of Data Analytics, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mario Sims
- Department of Social Medicine, Population, and Public Health, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - David Schlundt
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Chrystyna D. Kouros
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, United States of America
| | - Burel Goodin
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Crystal Lim
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kerry Kinney
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
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Williams MT, Holmes S, Zare M, Haeny A, Faber S. An Evidence-Based Approach for Treating Stress and Trauma due to Racism. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2023; 30:565-588. [PMID: 38037647 PMCID: PMC10686550 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Racism can be stressful or even traumatizing. Psychological unwellness emerges out of the confluence of historical, cultural, and individual experiences, and resulting syndromes may or may not fit into a DSM-5 PTSD diagnostic framework. Although racial stress and trauma are common presentations in therapy, few therapists have the resources or training to treat these issues. Based on the empirical evidence to date, this article describes the essential components of treatment for racial stress and trauma from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, called the Healing Racial Trauma protocol. Each technique is described with reference to the literature supporting its use for racial stress and trauma, along with guidance for how therapists might implement the method with clients. Also provided is information about sequencing techniques for optimal outcomes. Critical therapist prerequisites for engaging in this work are also discussed, with an emphasis on an anti-racist, empathy-centered approach throughout.
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Goddard-Durant SK, Doucet A, Tizaa H, Sieunarine JA. "I don't have the energy": Racial stress, young Black motherhood, and Canadian social policies. CANADIAN REVIEW OF SOCIOLOGY = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SOCIOLOGIE 2023; 60:542-566. [PMID: 37698323 DOI: 10.1111/cars.12457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Significant socio-economic, health, and mental health disparities due to highly entrenched and systemic anti-Black racism in Canadian institutions, policies, and practices are now well documented in research and policy reports. Yet, few in-depth studies have addressed the mental health impacts of anti-Black racism on Canadian populations. This article is rooted in a community-based, qualitative research project with young first and second-generation Black Caribbean-Canadian mothers and is informed by Black Feminist epistemologies and intersectional theories and methodologies. Our research demonstrates how participants' childhood experiences with xenophobic and racist immigration policies and educational, child welfare, and childcare systems caused their future mental health challenges as young Black mothers, and how these struggles were exacerbated by their encounters with the racist, ageist, xenophobic medical, social, and mental health services they had to access as young mothers. Based on these findings, we recommend enhancements to current social policies to minimize the differential mental health impacts on young Black Canadian mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Doucet
- Department of Sociology, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helena Tizaa
- Department of Sociology, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
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Faber SC, Metzger IW, La Torre J, Fisher C, Williams MT. The illusion of inclusion: contextual behavioral science and the Black community. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1217833. [PMID: 38022926 PMCID: PMC10643524 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1217833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-racism approaches require an honest examination of cause, impact, and committed action to change, despite discomfort and without experiential avoidance. While contextual behavioral science (CBS) and third wave cognitive-behavioral modalities demonstrate efficacy among samples composed of primarily White individuals, data regarding their efficacy with people of color, and Black Americans in particular, is lacking. It is important to consider the possible effects of racial stress and trauma on Black clients, and to tailor approaches and techniques grounded in CBS accordingly. We describe how CBS has not done enough to address the needs of Black American communities, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) as examples. We also provide examples at the level of research representation, organizational practices, and personal experiences to illuminate covert racist policy tools that maintain inequities. Towards eradicating existing racism in the field, we conclude with suggestions for researchers and leadership in professional psychological organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya C. Faber
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Isha W. Metzger
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph La Torre
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Carsten Fisher
- Behavioral Wellness Clinic, LLC, Tolland, CT, United States
| | - Monnica T. Williams
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Behavioral Wellness Clinic, LLC, Tolland, CT, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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44
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Kunstman JW, Ogungbadero T, Deska JC, Bernstein MJ, Smith AR, Hugenberg K. Race-based biases in psychological distress and treatment judgments. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293078. [PMID: 37856467 PMCID: PMC10586605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Racism creates and sustains mental health disparities between Black and White Americans and the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing harassment directed at Black Americans has exacerbated these inequities. Yet, as the mental health needs of Black Americans rise, there is reason to believe the public paradoxically believes that psychopathology hurts Black individuals less than White individuals and these biased distress judgments affect beliefs about treatment needs. Four studies (two pre-registered) with participants from the American public and the field of mental health support this hypothesis. When presented with identical mental illnesses (e.g., depression, anxiety, schizophrenia), both laypeople and clinicians believed that psychopathology would be less distressing to Black relative to White individuals. These distress biases mediate downstream treatment judgments. Across numerous contexts, racially-biased judgments of psychological distress may negatively affect mental healthcare and social support for Black Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W. Kunstman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Tade Ogungbadero
- Fisher College of Business, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Jason C. Deska
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael J. Bernstein
- Psychological and Social Sciences, Pennsylvania State University–Abington, Abington, PA, United States of America
| | - April R. Smith
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Kurt Hugenberg
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States of America
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45
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Park D, Lee E, Yang S, Ware OD. Patterns of Familial and Racial Trauma and Their Associations with Substance Use Disorders among Racial/Ethnic Minority Adults. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01812-1. [PMID: 37814078 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01812-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial/ethnic minorities in the United States often experience many different types of traumatic events. We examine the patterns of familial and racial trauma and their associations with substance use disorders (SUDs) among racial/ethnic minority adults. METHODS We used data from the National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions-III. The study sample included 17,115 individuals who were Hispanic (43.6%), Black (34.9%), Asian American and Pacific Islander (17.0%), and American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN, 4.6%). Latent class analysis models with covariates and distal outcomes were analyzed to investigate patterns of trauma exposure and estimate binary outcomes of SUDs. Familial and racial trauma was measured by ten areas of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and six items of racial discrimination. RESULTS We found four distinctive groups: low trauma (Class 1, 62.1%), high discrimination (Class 2, 17.2%), high ACEs (Class 2, 14.9%), and high trauma (Class 4, 5.9%). Compared to Class 1, other groups were more likely to include Black and AI/AN adults. Participants in Class 2 reported greater risks for alcohol and other drug use disorders. Those in Class 3 and 4 reported greater risks for alcohol, opioid, stimulant, and other drug use disorders. CONCLUSION Given a higher risk of trauma exposure in Black and AI/AN adults, racially and ethnically sensitive trauma-focused interventions may help prevent and reduce SUDs in those populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daejun Park
- Department of Social Work, Ohio University, Athens, OH, 45701, USA.
| | - Eunwoo Lee
- School of Social Welfare, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Sejung Yang
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, The University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Orrin D Ware
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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46
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Genc E, Baptist J. Discrimination Against Muslims in the USA and Couple Interactions: An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023:10.1007/s10943-023-01923-3. [PMID: 37787948 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01923-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Muslims in the USA experience unfair treatment and direct exposure to discriminatory acts because of their religion. Trauma stemming from discrimination can strengthen couples' relationships as they find solace in each other, or strain relationships if couples struggle to cope with the stress. This study examined the relationship between experiencing anti-Muslim hate and couples' interactional quality. Further, the role of open communication between partners in moderating the impact of anti-Muslim hate on couple interactions was examined. The study included a sample of 129 Muslim couples. The results indicated gender disparity whereby anti-Muslim hate was linked to negative interactions in relationships for Muslim women, but this was not true for their male partners. In addition, open communication had contracting gender effects on the relationship between anti-Muslim hate and couple interactions. Increased self-disclosure buffered the adverse effects of anti-Muslim hate by reducing the likelihood of negative interactions. Among women, increased self-disclosure exacerbated the detrimental effects of anti-Muslim hate on the couples' relationship such that couples engaged in more negative interactions. Clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Genc
- Department of Psychology, Bartin University Kutlubey Kampüsü, 741000, Yazicilar Köyü, Bartin, Turkey.
| | - Joyce Baptist
- Applied Human Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, US
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47
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Motley RO, Joe S, McQueen A, Clifton M, Carlton-Brown D. Development, construct validity, and measurement invariance of the Modified Classes of Racism Frequency of Racial Experiences Measure (M-CRFRE) to capture direct and indirect exposure to perceived racism-based police use of force for Black emerging adults. CULTURAL DIVERSITY & ETHNIC MINORITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 29:575-589. [PMID: 35113606 PMCID: PMC9546726 DOI: 10.1037/cdp0000525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To utilize focus groups, cognitive interviews, content expert panel, and computer-assisted surveys to develop and pilot survey items assessing exposure to perceived racism-based police violence to enhance the Classes of Racism Frequency of Racial Experiences (CRFRE). METHOD Focus groups and cognitive interviews were conducted with Black emerging adults (n = 44) in St. Louis, Missouri. Utilizing a grounded theory approach, a thematic analysis of the focus group and cognitive interview transcripts was conducted to identify key items to be added to the CRFRE. Three content experts assessed the face and content validity of survey items. Computer-assisted surveys were conducted to pilot the modified CRFRE with a sample of Black emerging adults (n = 300). Confirmatory factor analyses and structural paths were used to examine the construct validity of the modified CRFRE. RESULTS Participant's qualitative data and suggestions from content experts resulted in the development of 16 additional survey items regarding exposure to perceived racism-based police violence across three domains (victim, witness in person, and seen in media). The modified CRFRE measure showed construct validity, internal reliability, and measurement invariance between men and women. CONCLUSIONS This study advances our epidemiological methodology for quantifying exposure to perceived racism-based police violence. Future research is necessary to assess the prevalence of exposure to perceived racism-based police violence and associated mental and behavioral outcomes for Black emerging adults in the U.S. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sean Joe
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Amy McQueen
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
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48
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Wu Q, Jia F. Empowering Students against Ethnic Bullying: Review and Recommendations of Innovative School Programs. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1632. [PMID: 37892295 PMCID: PMC10605012 DOI: 10.3390/children10101632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite research on anti-bullying interventions, there is no systemic approach or resources for teachers to address ethnic and race-related bullying in schools. In this article, we selectively reviewed theories and programs to help teachers identify and address ethnic bullying in their classrooms. We provide recommendations for workshops (e.g., cultural awareness training, empathy-building activities, bystander intervention, and stigma-based intervention). These anti-ethnic bullying workshops should promote understanding of different cultures, strengthen empathy for those who are different, encourage bystanders to take action, and reduce stigma and stereotypes. Through the sharing of diverse perspectives, expertise, and experiences, we hope this article can cultivate interactive dialogues and collaborations between educators and researchers to effectively address ethnic and race-related bullying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyue Wu
- School of Health in Social Science, The University of Edinburgh, Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK
| | - Fanli Jia
- Department of Psychology, Seton Hall University, 400 S Orange Ave, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA
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49
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Nowak AL, Anderson CM, Zhao Y, Ford JL, Mackos AR, Ohm J, Tan A, Saadat N, Misra DP, Giurgescu C. Epigenetic Implications of Neighborhood Disorder and Psychological Distress among Pregnant Black Women. West J Nurs Res 2023; 45:780-788. [PMID: 37382364 PMCID: PMC10528284 DOI: 10.1177/01939459231184713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Background: In the United States, Black women experience preterm birth (PTB; <37 weeks gestation) at more than 1.5 times the rate of non-Hispanic White women. Social determinants of health including the neighborhood environment have been recognized as contributing to the risk of PTB. Due to historical segregation, Black women are more likely to live in neighborhoods with higher levels of neighborhood disorder compared with White women. Perceived neighborhood disorder appears to be a risk factor for maternal psychological distress in Black women and psychological distress has mediated the association between neighborhood disorder and the risk for PTB. However, the biological pathways underpinning these associations are not clear. Objective: We examined the associations among neighborhood disorder; psychological distress; DNA methylation of six stress-related, glucocorticoid candidate genes (AVP, CRH, CRHBP, FKBP5, HSD11B2, NR3C1); and gestational age at birth among 44 Black pregnant women. Methods: Women who were 18-45 years old and 8-18 weeks gestation had blood drawn and completed questionnaires measuring perceived neighborhood disorder, neighborhood crime, and psychological distress. Results: Three CpG sites were associated with neighborhood disorder (cg03405789 [CRH], cg14939152 and cg15910486 [NR3C1]). One CpG site, cg03098337 (FKBP5) was associated with psychological distress. Three of the identified CpG sites were located within gene CpG islands or shores-areas at which DNA methylation is known to affect gene transcription. Conclusion: These findings warrant further research to clarify intermediate biological pathways and potential biomarkers to identify women at risk for PTB. Identification of PTB risk early in pregnancy would allow for interventions to prevent PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Nowak
- Assistant Professor, Loyola University Chicago, Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, CTRE: Room 346, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Cindy M Anderson
- Professor and Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Educational Innovation, Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women, Children and Youth, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yihong Zhao
- Professor of Data Sciences, Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jodi L Ford
- Professor and Assistant Director of the Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women Children and Youth, Director, Stress Science Lab, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Amy R Mackos
- Associate Clinical Professor, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joyce Ohm
- Associate Professor of Oncology, Department of Genetics and Genomics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Alai Tan
- Research Professor, Center of Research and Health Analytics, Faculty Affiliate, Translational Data Analytics Institute, The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nadia Saadat
- Research Investigator, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dawn P Misra
- Professor and Chair, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, MSU College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Carmen Giurgescu
- Professor and Associate Dean for Research, Chatlos Foundation Endowed Chair in Nursing, University of Central Florida College of Nursing, Orlando, FL, USA
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50
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Bacchus EC, D’Angelo AB, Grov C. Experiences of police-related stress among a U.S. national cohort of gay and bisexual men. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 72:89-100. [PMID: 37272547 PMCID: PMC10524736 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Marginalized groups (including people of Color and sexual minorities) have been over-policed and specifically targeted based on their race/ethnicity and identity. The deleterious effects of over-policing marginalized groups include overrepresentation in the carceral system, experiencing higher rates of violence from police, and extend to affect mental health and stress levels. This study examines police-related stress among a U.S. national cohort of gay and bisexual men (collected in late 2020 and early 2021) and its association with race/ethnicity, age, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, income, and other characteristics of interest. Our results show that the odds of reporting extreme police-related stress were 2.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] [2.08, 3.41]) times higher for Black individuals than for their White counterparts. Odds were also significantly greater for those who have experienced race-based (odds ratio [OR] = 2.26, 95% CI [1.81-2.82] or identity-based discrimination (OR = 2.05, 95% CI [1.66, 2.54]). Our findings demonstrate variation in police-related stress among a cohort of gay and bisexual men; with men of Color and low-income men among the most affected by police-related stress. For this population, police-related stress should be considered for its potential deleterious effect on HIV vulnerability and reporting violent crimes to police (including intimate partner violence and hate crimes).
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Affiliation(s)
- Erinn C. Bacchus
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- Healthy CUNY, New York, NY
| | - Alexa B. D’Angelo
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | - Christian Grov
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
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