Citation

Ogan MA, Monk JK, Killoren S, Rivero A, Colaner C, Carlos Chavez FL. Cultur. Divers. Ethnic Minor. Psychol. 2022; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Society for the Psychological Study of Ethnic Minority Issues; American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/cdp0000567

PMID

36395027

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Racial/ethnic discrimination is a common and salient stressor for many individuals. Although discrimination can impair personal and relational well-being, little is known about its influences on the process of considering dissolution (i.e., relationship instability). In two studies of Latino/a young adults, we examined associations among discrimination, psychological distress, relational uncertainty, and relationship instability.

METHOD: Study 1 assessed self-reports of 475 participants aged 18-29 (60.2% female, M(age) = 24.8, SD = 3.22). Study 2 examined self-reports of 462 participants aged 18-29 (40.9% female, M(age) = 25.9, SD = 2.72). Structural equation models evaluated direct and indirect associations among study variables.

RESULTS: Discrimination was associated with relationship instability, both directly and indirectly via its associations with psychological distress and, in Study 1, relational uncertainty.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall results suggest that racial/ethnic discrimination is associated with romantic relationship instability through its associations with psychological distress and uncertainty about the future of a relationship. Prior research demonstrates the resilience of Latino/a communities, and our findings reinforce the need for policies and clinical resources that reduce discrimination and support mental health and relationships. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Language: en